Abstract
Si3N4/W composites with high wear resistance were fabricated by reduction reaction of tungsten boride (WB) under hot-press sintering in a nitrogen atmosphere. Composites sintered above 1850°C consisted of β-Si3N4, W, W2B and W2C. The Si3N4 matrix grains in the composite were composed of an elongated and bimodal structure similar to conventional Si3N4. Mechanical properties, i.e. fracture toughness and strength, were almost the same as monolithic Si3N4 ceramics produced under the same sintering conditions and with the same additive system.
