| Abstract Scope |
This study examines how storage conditions and time affect sintering behavior of alumina cylinders with wall thickness (500 µm in green body) fabricated via digital light processing (DLP). Green bodies were stored under three environments— ambient room temperature, vacuum container, and 60°C— for >1 hour, 48 hours, and 192 hours after printing. After sintering, geometric distortion and density were analyzed to evaluate how pre-sintering storage and time influences warping behavior. While storage conditions showed minimal effect, storage time displayed a compelling trend. Samples sintered immediately after printing showed noticeable warping, those stored for 48 hours showed minimal warping, and those stored for 192 hours experienced the most severe warping. We infer that moderate storage time allows residual stress to relax and polymer binder to stabilize while prolonged storage promotes internal defects. These results highlight the importance of optimizing post-print storage time and how these may adversely influence the sintering behavior. |