Preparation and fracture behavior of alumina platelet reinforced alumina-monazite composites

Abstract

Fracture behaviors were investigated in the laminated alumina composite ceramics. To improve the mechanical properties of alumina ceramics, templated grain growth (TGG) technique of alpha-Al2O3 platelet and LaPO4 as a second phase were introduced. Textured samples were made by the lamination of green tapes through the tape-casting method, while random samples were made through the conventional powder processing method. Green compacts were sintered at 1600degreesC for 2 h in air. Fracture toughness was tested using indentation strength bending (ISB) method. Indentation on the sample surface was produced by Vickers indent at various loads. From the bending test, enhanced fracture toughness was found in the textured composite, compared to the random composite.