Xenon Flash Sintering Technology
Sintering is a critical step in ceramic processing, but it is typically both energy-intensive and time-consuming. When densifying thin ceramic layers or coatings, the maximum safe sintering temperature is often constrained by the operating temperature of the substrate. Processing at these lower temperatures can negatively affect the performance of the ceramic layer, and, in some cases, may require alternative deposition technologies or even prevent the manufacture of certain components entirely.
A process that can rapidly sinter the ceramic layer without damaging the substrate, while maintaining microstructural control and remaining cost-effective and scalable, is therefore a high priority for the aerospace, nuclear, and energy industries. Xenon Flash offers a potential solution.
What is Xenon Flash?
Xenon Flash Sintering is a high temperature, rapid heating technique that requires no physical contact with the part or sample. Xenon flash lamps have a broad emissions spectrum, spanning ultraviolet to infrared wavelengths and can heat large surface areas from 25 mm to over 300 mm. These characteristics make Xenon Flash a scalable technology with significant potential for rapid ceramic processing.
Why use Xenon Flash Sintering?
- Rapid sintering suitable for manufacturing environments, with zirconia pellets demonstrated to densify in as little as 15 minutes
- Fully contact‑free processing, making it well suited to coatings, surface repair, and ceramic layer applications
- Proven capability for surface densification of non‑oxide ceramics, including silicon carbide
- Based on an established, commercialised technology that Lucideon is supporting for exploitation in the advanced ceramics market
- Potentially manoeuvrable, enabling flexible deployment for repair and coating applications
- Does not require a surrounding furnace, allowing rapid and energy‑efficient heating
- Broadband heat source capable of heating a wide range of material types and colours
- Highly controllable process, enabling flexible heating and cooling profiles
Lucideon capabilities
Lucideon and The AMRICC Centre have a strategic relationship with Excelitas, combining Excelitas' commercialised Xenon Flash technology with Lucideon's proprietary real-time linear control software. Lucideon operates pilot-scale Xenon Flash equipment with inert atmosphere processing capability, making it suitable for both oxide and non-oxide material types.
This facility builds on Lucideon's experience in control software development and material science, supporting the development and commercialisation of Xenon Flash for advanced ceramic applications.
Lucideon can develop processing parameters, carry out trials, and validate performance for specific applications, materials, and technical requirements.
Applications of Xenon Flash:
- Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFCs)
- Solid State Batteries (SSBs): sintering and powder synthesis
- Ceramic Matrix Composites (CMCs)
- Environmental Barrier Coatings (EBCs)
- Surface repair
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