MICROWAVE SINTERING OF Ce-Y-ZTA COMPOSITE

The batch sintering process and resultant mechanical properties of Ce-Y-ZTA composite were studied using rectangular multimode microwave oven with a power supply of 5kW, 2.45GHz. The experimental results show that a fast ceramic sintering with high stability and repetition could be realized through suitable control of heating profile and improving of hybrid heating structure. Density of sintered specimens reached 99% the theoretical value. The microwave sintering process only cost two hours, and final sintering temperature had a decrease of 50 ℃ to 100℃ compared with conventional sintering. Finer grain size and more homogeneous microstructure could be observed, for microwave processing. Also higher flexural strength (from 600 MPa to 670MPa) and fracture toughness were obtained.