ACerS Bulletin

The membership magazine of The American Ceramic Society

Root cause analysis: Methods and procedures for unleashing ceramic potential

In this issue we look at different methods and procedures to determine the root cause of various material failures and behaviors.

The first feature article provides a high-level overview of several analytical X-ray technologies. The second feature article describes the fundamentals to conducting a proper root cause analysis. The third feature article discusses the development of a novel discrete element method to deepen understanding of the refractory microstructure–property relationship.

In addition to the feature stories, the “Deciphering the Discipline” column describes the use of entropy-inspired materials design for next-generation electroceramics, and the “Business and Market View” column overviews the global market for nondestructive testing equipment and services.

With the popular movie “Oppenheimer” nominated for several awards at the upcoming Oscars in March 2024, a timely feature article profiles physicist William Houlder Zachariasen and his contributions to the Manhattan Project.

Finally, the Ceramic and Glass Industry Foundation recently welcomed a new program manager, Lori Houghton, who you can learn more about in the Spotlight section of the March 2024 Bulletin.

Feature Articles

Analytical X-ray techniques for chemical and structural characterization of ceramics

Nathan Henderson, Tina Hill, David Sampson, and Julia Sedlmair
X-ray techniques are key instrumental methods for chemical
and structural analysis of ceramics. This article provides a high-level overview of several analytical X-ray technologies.
16PDF

‘There is always another way to destroy
refractories!’ Root cause analysis of a steel ladle argon system breakout

Tom Vert
The 2nd Determining the root cause of a refractory failure issue is
essential for liability and safeguarding reasons. A proper root cause analysis must consider all potential sources of failure, from materials to installation to operational factors.
22PDF

Discrete element modeling deepens understanding of microcracking phenomena in refractory materials

Harikeshava Ranganathan, Damien André, Marc Huger, Ratana Soth, and Christoph Wöhrmeyer
A new discrete element method provides a deeper understanding of the relationship between a refractory’s microstructure and its macroscopic thermomechanical
properties—paving the way to use microcrack engineering for commercial refractory production.
26PDF

Zachariasen and the Manhattan Project

Mario Affatigato
Numerous ceramists played hidden but key roles in the Manhattan Project. This article remembers the work of one such scientist, William Houlder Zachariasen.
32PDF

Meetings

Upcoming dates: PACC-FMAs 2024, GOMD 2024, 10th International Congress on Ceramics, and PACRIM16

35

Departments

News & Trends

3

Spotlight

6

Ceramics in Bioceramics

13

Research Briefs

14

Columns

Business and Market View

BCC Publishing Staff
Nondestructive testing equipment and services
12

Deciphering the Discipline


Jackson Spurling
Entropy-inspired materials design for next-generation electroceramics
40

Resources

Calendar

36

Classified Advertising

37

Display Ad Index

39

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The American Ceramic Society Bulletin brings you the latest industry news and trends, as well as news about the Society, its members, and activities.

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