Modified agar and process for preparing modified agar for use ceramic composition to add green strength and/or improve other properties of a preform

A method of forming an article, comprising the steps of:

• a) preparing a mixture of a molding composition comprising:
• (1) a gel-forming polysaccharide material,
• (2) a gel-enhancing agent comprised of a poly(amine),
• (3) a solvent,
• (4) powders selected from the group consisting of metal powders, ceramic powders and mixtures thereof, and
• (5) an oxidizing agent, said oxidizing agent being first added to said mixture prior to adding said gel-enhancing agent;
• b) heating said mixture to a first temperature above the gel point of said gel-forming material to solubilize the gel forming material, said temperature ranging from about 70.degree. C. to about 100.degree. C.;
• c) supplying the mixture to a mold;
• d) molding the mixture at a second cooler temperature at or below the gel point of the gel-forming material to produce a self-supporting article comprising gel and the powders.