In this work, a process chain for the fabrication of dense zirconia parts will be presented covering the individual steps feedstock compounding, 3D printing via Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) and thermal postprocessing including debinding and sintering. A special focus was set on the comprehensive rheological characterization of the feedstock systems applying high-pressure capillary and oscillation rheometry. The latter allowed the representation of the flow situation especially in the nozzle of the print head with the occurring low-shear stress. Oscillation rheometry enabled the clarification of the surfactant's concentration, here stearic acid, or more general, the feedstocks composition influence on the resulting feedstock flow behavior. Finally, dense ceramic parts (best values around 99 % of theory) were realized with structural details smaller than 100 µm.
Keywords: 3D printing; FFF/FDM; MEX; ceramics; fused filament fabrication; material extrusion; zirconia.