Prospects for Improving Physical and Mechanical Properties of Corundum Ceramics

Abstract

The prospects for improving microhardness and strength characteristics of corundum ceramics (Al2O3) modified by zirconium dioxide (3YSZ) are investigated. Ceramic samples are molded by semi-dry pressing followed by sintering. It is experimentally established that an increase in 3YSZ content in Al2O3/3YSZ composite ceramics fired at temperatures above 1450 oC increases strength and decreases microhardness. Ceramics of optimal composition (100–x) Al2O3–x 3YSZ, x = 5–10 wt. % 3YSZ has high strength and hardness values, and the average value is 700MPa and 22.3±1.8 GPa.