Abstract: The present invention relates to a feedstock composition comprising inorganic particles having a multi-modal particle size distribution and comprising a collection of irregular fine particles having a fine particle size distribution and an average fine particle diameter, and a collection of irregular coarse particles having a coarse particle size distribution and an average coarse particle diameter that is in a range from 4 to 7 times the average fine particle diameter. The feedstock composition further comprising a binder composition that is adapted to solidify to form a body comprising the inorganic particles and solidified binder composition. Additionally, the present composition provides a method of forming a shaped body that comprises inorganic particles dispersed in binder composition as well as a method of forming a low porosity inorganic sintered body.

Abstract: Described are molds that include a ceramic material at a surface, as well as methods of forming the molds, and methods of using the molds; the ceramic material is constituted substantially, mostly, or entirely of three elemental components designated M, A, and X; the “M” component is at least one transition metal; the “A” component is one or a combination of Si, Al, Ge, Pb, Sn, Ga, P, S, In, As, Tl, and Cd; and the “X” component is carbon, nitrogen, or a combination thereof.

Abstract: Described are molds that include a ceramic material at a surface, as well as methods of forming the molds, and methods of using the molds; the ceramic material is constituted substantially, mostly, or entirely of three elemental components designated M, A, and X; the “M” component is at least one transition metal; the “A” component is one or a combination of Si, Al, Ge, Pb, Sn, Ga, P, S, In, As, Tl, and Cd; and the “X” component is carbon, nitrogen, or a combination thereof.