These plots show sample deformation during heat treatment at low temperatures. Reference points before, during, and after heat treatment were also measured to account for furnace temperature dependent deformations. The glass transition temperature of the binder and the associated change in volume are clearly visible in the first plot. It is interesting to note that these considerable deformations took place despite a very small binder loss (1%). This suggests that more attention should be given to studying binder migration inside the sample, and wicking of the binder from sample to setter. These studies are currently being performed.
-----------
©CPRL, 1995