Synthesis and characterization of electronic ceramics

Abstract

High technology ceramics are an essential part of the electronic and electrical equipment used for consumer, industrial, and military applications. Electronic ceramics are integral components of the circuits used in computers; signal processing, telecommunications, power transmission, and power control technologies. These materials play a ubiquitous but often little noticed role in our daily lives. newline The conversion of molded, naturally occurring clay into fired, insoluble ceramic pottery began mankind s technical mastery over nature. The need for progressively higher performance spark plugs for automotive and aircraft engines during World War II provided the motivation to improve the traditional clay-feldspar flint tri-axial porcelain body widely used in housewares and for low voltage insulation. These developments led to the refractories essential for production of high melting point metallic alloys. The transition from the Ages of Pottery to Bronze to Iron to Steel has culminated in our modern worldwide industrial society. newlineand#12288;and#12288;and#12288;and#12288;This rapid change in technology coincides with the development and growth of the electronic ceramic industry. An ever-increasing ability to manipulate and control the electronic properties of ceramic materials has played again a discerning role in our transformation from the Steel Age to Information Age to Nanotechnology Age. Satellite communications from coast to coast and around the world would not have been possible without simultaneous advanced developments in ceramic materials. newlineand#12288;and#12288;and#12288;and#12288;Removal of ionically conducting potassium ions from the insulator composition was achieved; leading to an all-alumina body and the beginning of sophisticated molecularly tailored electronic ceramics. However, due to the expanding competition of miniaturizing the important electronic components, the technology of design of materials gradually gaining an importance. The state-of-the-art of material synthesis is also becoming a crucial task.