JAWAHARLAL NEHRU TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY HYDERABAD B.Tech IV CERAMICS SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY Previous Question Paper (July/August - 2022 - R18)

Ceramics are inorganic, non-metallic solid materials that are typically crystalline in nature, formed by the action of heat and subsequent cooling. They are composed of metallic and non-metallic elements held together primarily by ionic and covalent bonds. These materials are characterized by high hardness, high melting points, chemical inertness, and low electrical and thermal conductivity.

Traditional ceramics are primarily based on naturally occurring raw materials such as clay, silica, and feldspar. Examples include:

• Whitewares: Porcelain, bone china, and earthenware used in tableware and sanitary ware.
• Structural Clay Products: Bricks, roof tiles, and vitrified clay pipes used in construction.
• Refractories: Firebricks and silica bricks used to line high-temperature furnaces.
• Abrasives: Natural grinding stones and polishing powders.

Structural Ceramics: These are designed for high-load-bearing applications where mechanical integrity and thermal shock resistance are critical. Examples include silicon carbide (SiC), silicon nitride (Si₃N₄), and partially stabilized zirconia (PSZ). Applications include engine components like turbocharger rotors, cutting tools, wear-resistant bearings, and armor plating.

Fine Ceramics (Advanced Ceramics): These are produced from high-purity, synthetic powders with precise control over processing to achieve specific electrical, magnetic, or optical properties. Examples include alumina (Al₂O₃), barium titanate (BaTiO₃), and ferrites. Applications include electronic substrates, capacitors, piezoelectric sensors, medical implants (such as hip replacements), and fiber optic connectors.