Enhanced sintering rate of zirconia (3Y-TZP) by application of a small AC electric field

A small initial electric field E0 = 13.9 V cm−1 enhanced the sintering rate of zirconia (3Y-TZP) powder, with a 60 Hz AC field having a greater effect than a DC field. The enhancement with both fields was in accord with the retardation of grain growth observed directly by scanning electron microscopy and with that which occurred during grain growth and plastic deformation. Some factors which could contribute to the observed behavior are given.