Abstract:
In situ reinforcement of ceramic matrix can be achieved by the elongated grains or platelets in situ formed in matrix during sintering through the mechanisms of crack bridging, crack deflection, elongated grain/platelet pullout, etc. In this work,
in situ Al
2O
3 platelet/Ce-TZP composites and
in situ SrO·6Al
2O
3 rod-like grain/Ce-TZP composites were prepared by adding AlOOH together with the mineralizer of TiO
2 or the reactant of SrCO
3 to Ce-TZP matrix. The microstructure of the composites was observed by SEM, and the density and mechanical properties of the composites were measured. The results indicated that TiO
2 markedly promoted the anisotropic grain growth of Al
2O
3 and SrCO
3 reacted with Al
2O
3, forming Al
2O
3 platelets and anisotropic SrO·6Al
2O
3 rod-like grains respectively. The
in situ Al
2O
3 platelets and SrO·6Al
2O
3 rod-like grains were well-distributed in the matrix with a larger aspect ratio. Sintering temperature obviously affected the grain size and the content of Al
2O
3 platelet and SrO·6Al
2O
3 rod-like grain. The mechanical properties of the composites were improved by
in situ introduction of Al
2O
3 platelets and SrO·6Al
2O
3 rod-like grains.