Use of Recycled Zirconia in the Formulation of a Photosensitive Suspension for 3D Printing Using the Digital Light Processing Method

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the rheological behavior of a recycled zirconia suspension produced by grinding ceramic fragments. This behavior was evaluated according to the dispersant used, its concentration and volume fraction, as well as its viscosity and stability. To this end, already milled zirconia blocks were ground manually and mechanically with the powders analyzed using laser diffraction. Disperbyk 2001 was added to the powder and its viscosity was tested using a rotational viscometer and its stability using the simple sedimentation test after 1, 7, and 14 days. The milling technique made it possible to achieve submicrometric powders with the highest fraction of particles below 1 um. The prepared suspension produced a higher viscosity value (0.59Pa.s/1s) below the limit of 3 Pa.s and was stable over 14 days. The suspension with BYK-2001 dispersant and recycled zirconia was able to print recycled zirconia using the Digital Light Processing system.