• Increasing final sintering temperature and nano-ZrO2 content enhance sintering degree, leading to higher shrinkage, lower porosity, and increased bulk density in SLA-fabricated SiO2-based ceramic cores.
• Elevated temperatures promote cristobalite and ZrSiO4 network formation, which inhibits viscous flow and significantly improves high-temperature flexural strength and creep resistance.
• Optimal properties are achieved at 1,250 °C with 1.5-2.0 wt.% nano-ZrO2, yielding balanced shrinkage, porosity, density, and mechanical strength for investment casting applications.
• The study provides practical guidance for optimizing sintering processes of SLA ceramic cores, enhancing their industrial applicability in superalloy turbine blade manufacturing.