Development of High Solid Loading SiC Slurries for Vat Photopolymerization Additive Manufacturing through Powder Oxidation Control and Dispersant Optimization

Silicon carbide ceramics, featuring high-temperature resistance, are important in aerospace and renewable energy fields. With the increasing demand for complex ceramic structures, traditional manufacturing methods are becoming inadequate. Additive manufacturing technology based on vat photopolymerization holds great promise. However, during the additive manufacturing process of silicon carbide ceramics, issues such as light absorption and limited curing depth are faced. These problems impede the effective development of high-solid-loading silicon carbide ceramic slurries. This study systematically probes into the impacts of powder modification, dispersant concentration, and solid loading on the properties of silicon carbide ceramic slurries. Additionally, the oxidation degree of the powder was regulated. A slurry with a 50 vol.% solid loading suitable for vat photopolymerization has been developed, and complex silicon carbide structures have been fabricated. After sintering, the samples exhibit a flexural strength of 235.62 MPa and a density of 2.79 g/cm 3 , thus enhancing the potential for manufacturing complex ceramic components.