Effect of zirconia additions on the reaction sintering of aluminium titanate

Yttria-stabilized zirconia was added to a chemically prepared mixture of alumina and titania. The effect of the zirconia on the microstructure and resultant properties was studied following reaction sintering to form aluminium titanate. An increase in mechanical strength was observed with little effect on the excellent thermal properties of the aluminium titanate. This was attributed to generation of extra microcracks by the transformation of the zirconia phase and the unusual microstructure produced by the presence of zirconia.