SINTERING OF SELF-REINFORCED CERAMICS IN THE ZrO₂–Y₂O₃–CeO₂–Al₂O₃ SYSTEM

Abstract

The formation of self-reinforced composites in the ZrO₂–Y₂O₃–CeO₂–Al₂O₃ system is investigated. Depending on different sintering conditions, plates of СеAlO₃, Т-ZrO₂, and α-Al₂O₃ are formed in the matrix based on a solid solution of ZrO₂. The self-reinforced composite with fracture toughness 17–20 МPа • m^0,5 is obtained in optimum sintering conditions. In this composite, α-Al₂O₃ plates as well as individual Ce₂O₃ • 11Al₂O₃ plates are arranged in the matrix based on Т-ZrO₂. Self-reinforced composites in the ZrO₂-Y₂O₃–CeO₂–Al₂O₃ system have a considerable potential for various engineering ceramic materials with tailored combinations of properties, e.g., for medical applications (surgical tools and bioinert implants).