The sintering process is usually understood by geometrical models of sintering. These models are based upon idealized geometries of particles. These idealized geometries are used to describe the sintering process of equal sized particles. However, the consolidation of real powders involves sintering of unequal sized particles. The sintering behavior of real powders can be described using unequal sized particles sintering models. The existing unequal sized particles sintering models do not provide a complete quantitative description of the sintering process. The book applies simulation methods and describes a new geometric model to explain the kinetics and thermodynamics of unequal sized particles. The model is validated with sintering experiments.

Dr. Vineet Kumar received master's degree from the Carnegie Mellon University and PhD degree from the University of Utah.He is currently a Research Engineer with Kennametal. His research interests include electron microscopy especially orientation imaging microscopy, image processing, thin film technology for microelectronics and cutting tools.