Plasma‐flash sintering II: Flashing ZnO at room temperature using low AC voltage

Abstract In this study, we have advanced the plasma‐flash sintering (PFS) technique by demonstrating the preparation of dense ZnO ceramics at room temperature using a moderate electric field of 250 V cm −1 under a low‐pressure nitrogen atmosphere. This specific environment facilitates the sequential occurrence of plasma generation followed by the flash sintering event. Compared to traditional flash sintering technique, our approach significantly reduces both energy consumption and processing time, while eliminating the need for a furnace. Impedance spectroscopy confirms that ZnO ceramic produced via this method exhibits enhanced electrical conductivity. Hence, PFS is shown to be a potential tool for tuning the electrical properties of sintered materials at room temperature while boosting energy efficiency.