Field‐Assisted Sintering Technology/Spark Plasma Sintering: Mechanisms, Materials, and Technology Developments

Abstract Field‐assisted sintering technology/Spark plasma sintering is a low voltage, direct current (DC) pulsed current activated, pressure‐assisted sintering, and synthesis technique, which has been widely applied for materials processing in the recent years. After a description of its working principles and historical background, mechanical, thermal, electrical effects in FAST/SPS are presented along with the role of atmosphere. A selection of successful materials development including refractory materials, nanocrystalline functional ceramics, graded, and non‐equilibrium materials is then discussed. Finally, technological aspects (advanced tool concepts, temperature measurement, finite element simulations)…