Hello, All
I have finally read all posts. Whew!!
Now for a couple of points.
1. Load cell
Think automotive- rear drum brake wheel cylinders = small hydraulics
and a gauge, add an oil pressure sending unit and you have an analogue
signal for data recording and analysis. Our hobby cousins in amateur
rocketry use this to measure motor impulse.
2. Vacuum
I have worked on research into energy absorbing “green” materials, including epoxies reinforced with natural plant fibers and fumed silica. A good mix was achieved by simply “folding the material in” like egg whites. However pulling a vacuum on the batch with fumed silica and epoxy was a must, before the addition of the larger aggregate, in this case natural fibers. Vacuum is again pulled on the batch before molding. Vacuum was applied in a vac oven. The increased temp. decreased viscosity and aided in air removal. No vibration or compaction was needed.
3. Silating agents
Bad mojo in general. But spray on refractory repair material is available for industrial ovens. Check out some of the backyard metal casters, they are using it. In general silating agents help eliminate moisture and allow better adhesion. I doubt this is necessary in these applications.
Again my background is in energy absorption (read rubber) and not in rigid materials.