Development and thermo-physical characterization of polymers/metallic powder mixtures for MIM application

A new formulation based on nickel super-alloy for MIM application has been developed. This formulation, which will be used to produce metallic compounds for the aeronautic industry, is a mixture of common, environmentally friendly polymers and metallic powder. Many scientific problematic shall be taken into account: for example the fact that this solution is meant to be employed in the aeronautic industry, requesting tight control of each step of the process. Another difficulty is the fact that the formulation will be used to produce long and functional components, subject to high mechanical and thermal constraints. In addition to this, the use of a biodegradable polymer, whose thermo-physical properties make him difficult to use in a MIM application, is needed. (C) 2014 Published by Elsevier Ltd.