Fabrication of a ceramic/metal (Al₂O₃/Al) composite by 3D printing as an advanced refractory with enhanced electrical conductivity

several analytical techniques such as scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, compressive testing, hardness testing, XPS, and Hall measurement. Unlike other ceramic printing techniques that require expensive 3D printing machines and a very high temperature furnace (above 1500 °C) for post processing, this study demonstrates the viability of fabricating refractory items using a cost-effective fused deposition modelling 3D printer and a low temperature furnace (900 °C). The samples did not disintegrate at 1400 °C and were still sufficiently electrically conductive for advanced refractory applications.