On the sintering of single crystal rutile

The sintering of single crystal rutile spheres has been studied in air and in reducing atmosphere in the temperature range 900 to 1350[deg]C. The rate of sintering is characterized by two stages: a slow initial one, followed by a more rapid period. Simultaneously with the change in sintering rate, flat surfaces develop on the rutile spheres. It is suggested that this phenomenon is responsible for the change in sintering rate.From qualitative and quantitative evidence, it is concluded that surface diffusion is the transport process controlling sintering under the conditions of the present studies. The results of this investigation are at variance with those of previous studies. Possible reasons for the discrepancy are discussed.Peer Reviewedhttp://deepblue.lib.umich.edu/bitstream/2027.42/33417/1/0000818.pd