Synthesis of Kaolin Geopolymer as Ceramic Reinforcement in Lead-Free Solder

Abstract

This paper elucidates the fabrication of kaolin geopolymer as the ceramic material. The kaolin geopolymer ceramic (KGC) was used as a new potential reinforcement in the lead-free solder. The fabrication of KGC was started through combination of alkaline solution of NaOH and Na2SiO3 reaction with kaolin material. The mixture of kaolin geopolymer were prepared and the homogenised mixture were curing for 24 hours. The kaolin geopolymer is sintered at 1200°C and then crushed to produces a fine kaolin geopolymer. The KGC were then mixed with lead-free solder through powder metallurgy technique. The elemental distribution in the KGC was investigated by using Synchrotron Micro-XRF. Meanwhile, the phase analysis involved in KGC and composite solder with addition of KGC were investigated as well.