Formulation and Multilayer Jet Printing of Ceramic Inks

This paper describes the preparation of ceramic inks for forming ceramic components by multilayer printing using a continuous‐ink‐jet printer. The selection of appropriate binders and dispersants combined with high shear and ultrasonic mixing has enabled zirconia‐containing inks to be printed successfully to produce 2.5 mm thick bars. Printing trials show that the method of dispersion of the ceramic powder in the ink is decisive for accurate ink droplet positioning. The quality of the vertical walls and the top surface of the bars are related closely to the rate of drying of each printed layer. Inks with higher ceramic volume loadings (up to 10%) were also studied and produced useful information for further investigations.