Influence of forming conditions on characteristics of alumina–PSZ composites

Abstract

The purpose of the work reported in the present paper was to establish the correlation between the physical, mechanical, and microstructural properties of alumina matrix composites reinforced with (CeO₂, Nd₂ O₃, Y₂O₃ )–PSZ (partially stabilised zirconia) depending on the processing and thermal treatment conditions. The composites obtained from fine powder mixtures were formed by hydraulic pressing, ceramic injection moulding, and hot pressing under various temperature and pressure conditions. The samples were fired at 1550–1770°C in an oxidising atmosphere and in vacuum depending on the forming conditions. Comparative microstructure investigations were made by TEM on sample surfaces. The XRD results were in accordance with the determined properties of the investigated compositions. The results highlighted that the best physical and mechanical properties and homogenous microstructure for the ZTA composites were obtained by firing in vacuum.