Abstract
Dense Al2O3 particle-Y-TZP matrix (Al2O3<40 vol%) composite was prepared by pressureless sintering at 1550°C. Composites with 10-30 vol% Al2O3 particles showed enhanced fracture toughness, bending strength and Vicker's hardness as compared to single-phase Y-TZP. The highest strength (1150 MPa) and highest toughness (12.4 MPa m1/2) were obtained for the composite containing 10 vol% Al2O3. It was found that, in addition to the contribution by the crack-deflection effect, the enhanced phase transformation from tetragonal to monoclinic during fracture was the main toughening mechanism in operation in the composites.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 4019-4022 |
| Number of pages | 4 |
| Journal | Journal of Materials Science |
| Volume | 28 |
| Issue number | 15 |
| DOIs | |
| State | Published - Jan 1993 |
| Externally published | Yes |