Preparation of high solid loading, low viscosity ZrB2–SiC aqueous suspensions using PEI as dispersant

PEI was used as dispersant for ZrB 2 and SiC powders in water. The dispersion behavior of ZrB 2 and SiC in water was studied by zeta potential measurements , particle size distribution measurements and interparticle interaction calculations. Well-dispersed ZrB 2 and SiC aqueous suspensions were obtained using 0.6   wt% PEI at pH 6. The rheological behavior of ZrB 2 –SiC aqueous suspensions was also investigated. Finally, a high solid loading (52   vol%), low viscosity (980   mPa   s at 100   s −1 ) ZrB 2 –SiC aqueous suspension was successfully prepared.