THE POWER OF COLLOIDAL PROCESSING FOR BIO-INSPIRED CERAMICS: FROM PARTICLE-PARTICLE INTERACTION TO MANUFACTURING

Reference	Presenter	Authors (Institution)	Abstract
03-049	Carolina Tallon	Tallon, C.(Virginia Tech);	The unique microstructures and functionalities we find in nature have captured the imagination of all materials scientists and engineers seeking to develop new type of materials: the exceptionally tough multilayer arrangement in nacre shells; the super hydrophobic surfaces of lotus leaves; the ultra- lightweight structure of dandelions; materials that change their shape under stimuli as pine cones do; solar energy harvesting materials able to mimic plants photosynthesis; and multi-scale porous structures that can replace human bones and tissues are just a few of the most well-known examples. As ceramics researchers aiming to mimic such desirable bio-inspired features, we need a toolbox that allows an exhaustive control of the different building blocks (particles, solvents, ions, molecules, polymers, bubbles and micelles) to create those exceptional microstructures. Colloidal processing not only offers that versatility to assemble the building blocks into bio-inspired materials but also offers other advantages that must also be taken into consideration if we are to translate those features into real life applications: reliability; complex shape; transition into large-scale, and design for manufacturing. This talk will showcase the power of colloidal processing to create bio-inspired multi-scale microstructures at the nano- and micron-size level that can be made into large complex shapes without compromising those microstructural features. A case study using multi-scale hierarchical porous ceramic structures will be discussed from the level of fundamental particle-particle interactions, processing method selection, microstructural characterization, properties measurements, large scale production and predictive-performance modelling. Bringing together colloidal ceramic processing, design for manufacturing and bio-inspired materials will ensure the next-generation of ceramic materials.
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