SiC nanoparticle-reinforced Al2O3 matrix composites: Role of intra- and intergranular particles

Effects of SiC nanofibers addition on microstructure and dielectric properties of lead titanate ceramics

“…A distribution of SiC fibers in a matrix may decrease the sintering rate by inducing tensile mean stress in the matrix [27,28]. The effects are less pronounced for a PT matrix, wherein the tensile mean stress approaches the sintering potential, resulting in substantial retardation of sintering, as observed experimentally.…”

“…The specific source of this difference is not yet understood. Several researchers [27][28][29] have found that application of an initial gap between the fiber and matrix to delay stress development, are shown to be crucial requirements for densification of ceramic matrix materials.…”

Microstructural design for mechanical and electrical properties of spark plasma sintered Al2O3–SiC nanocomposites

“…1, the microstructures of nanocomposites obtained at 1400 • C and 1550 • C can be observed, where alumina (grey) and silicon carbide (black) can be distinguished and no porosity is observed. When similar composite powder (Al 2 O 3 -SiC) is sintered by hot-press, it is needed at least 1650 • C and 1 h soaking time [19][20][21] for total densification, even if the total SiC content is lower (5 vol.%). Then, SPS sintering technique allows attaining total densification of this type of composites in very short processing times and at relatively low temperatures.…”

“…Besides the sintering temperature, the presence of SiC particles as second phase also plays an important role in the alumina grain size control. The beneficial effect of the addition of SiC on the refinement of the alumina matrix microstructure has been studied by different authors [15,20,22]. This effect can be clearly observed when TTp and THb materials are compared.…”

Hybrid nanocomposites: A new route towards tougher alumina ceramics

“…Niihara first proposed a new design concept of ceramics and reported significant enhancement in the mechanical properties of SiC reinforced alumina composites [1]. The subsequent studies elsewhere showed similar, but lower increases in the bending strength accompanied by small, if any, increases in the fracture toughness [4][5][6][7]. The improvements were attributed to strengthening the grain boundaries by incorporation of SiC fine particles [8][9][10].…”