Structure and deformation of high-modulus alumina-zirconia fibres

The relationship between structure and mechanical properties for high-modulus alumina-zirconia fibres PRD-166 has been examined in detail. The structure has been characterized using a combination of wide-angle X-ray diffraction and scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The fibres have been found to have a Young's modulus of at least 280 GPa and a fracture strength of up to 1.2 GPa. The deformation of the fibres has also been followed using Raman microscopy where it is found that the wave numbers of the two -alumina Raman bands and two zirconia Raman bands shift on the application of strain. This is interpreted as being due to macroscopic stressing of the fibres leading to direct stressing of the metal oxide grains in the fibres. The possible application of this phenomenon for the investigation of the micromechanics of deformation of composites reinforced with PRD-166 fibres is discussed.