Research Axis Sintering processes and innovative materials

From the most common to the most complex sintering technologies

In search of the highest-performance materials.

EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES

Through research and evaluation of emerging technologies, BCRC researchers explore significant technologies for the production methods of tomorrow’s sintered materials. These materials include ceramics, metals, or composites. The research center’s experience in sintering for densification purposes is used to promote emerging technologies to the industrial sector that can reduce energy and technological costs. The primary strategy of these technologies is to significantly reduce processing times and temperatures compared to more traditional techniques while maintaining material performance.

TECHNOLOGICAL ADAPTATION

The BCRC’s expertise in heat treatment also involves adapting mature technologies to the challenges posed by new materials and manufacturing methods. Industry 4.0, particularly through digital manufacturing technologies (additive, subtractive, and hybrid), introduces new constraints and requirements that must be met in order to fully realize their benefits. The BCRC is equipped to take on these challenges and provide expert advice and support to companies seeking to optimize their manufacturing processes. By combining our knowledge of heat treatment with the latest digital technologies, we can help companies improve their production efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance the quality of their products.

INNOVATIVE MATERIALS AND PRODUCTS

The activities of the “Sintering Processes and Innovative Materials” thematic axis also revolve around the development of innovative materials/products, both ceramic and metallic. The technological environment is increasingly demanding materials with very high performance or unprecedented properties. Examples include machinable and conductive ternary carbides and nitrides (MAX phases), monolithic and composite ultra-high-temperature ceramics (UHTC), high-entropy alloys (HEA) with very high fracture resistance, intermetallics for thermoelectric applications, transparent materials, etc.

All of these activities are supported by a constantly evolving and state-of-the-art equipment park, allowing us to flexibly respond to industrial needs and expectations, as well as those of our academic partners.

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