Principal Bifurcations in Firing of Compact Oxide Ceramics

The processes occurring in firing of compact ceramics made of pure oxides are considered in the context of synergism. A hypothesis is put forward for the existence of three unstable state regions in the evolution of the sample structure. To eliminate multistability involving stable states (structures) which are significantly different in their properties, it is possible to influence the subsequent evolution of the structure by using external (for instance, periodic fields) and internal (structures created inside the sample at preceding stages) controlling signals within a possible bifurcation interval. Occasionally the desired structure can be accomplished through self-organization of the system.[PUBLICATION ABSTRACT]