The goal of this RIA award is to understand the reasons for the reduction in the densification rate of ceramic matrices when low volume fractions of inclusions are incorporated in the particle compact. Experiments will be performed to: (1) identify critical parameters that can be used to predict the densification of the composites, and (2) explore the ways in which processing variables affect the critical parameters. This understanding will lead to processing strategies that produce dense, defect- free ceramic composites.
