Processing and properties of Y-TZP/Al2O3 composites

The processing and property measurement of Y-TZP/Al₂O₃ ceramic-ceramic composites was investigated. The wet chemical synthesis route was adopted for the preparation of 3Y-TZP matrix dispersed with Al₂O₃ in three different volume fractions. Characterization of the resultant powders was carried out and their densification behaviour was studied by sintering in air in the temperature range 1200–1600 °C. The role of alumina as grain-growth inhibitor for Y-TZP, and the mechanical response of these ultrafine-grain ceramic composites in terms of K_lc characteristics, have been discussed.