Published online by Cambridge University Press: 28 February 2011
A review is given of the controlled use of compositional variation in the sintering of ceramics. The difficulties in determining the mechanisms of operation of sintering additives are outlined and the mechanistic approaches for studying the subject are described. Important remaining issues, new developments and opportunities for developing unique ceramic microstructures through the controlled use of compositional variation are described. Attention is focused on lattice defects and grain growth inhibition, particle pinning, multiple doping, anion effects, anisotropy effects, scavenging, surface diffusion and the formation of wavy grain boundaries.