Abstract
The influence of addition of fine TiC particles on the mechanical properties of Al2O3 matrix composites with 20wt% SiC whisker fabricated by hot-pressing was studied. With increasing TiC content up to 4wt%, the flexural strength and the fracture toughness at room temperature increased. The maximum values of 1200MPa and 7.5MPa⋅m1/2, respectively, were obtained at a TiC content of 4wt%. Transmission electron microscopic observations indicated that the TiC particles were dispersed not only at the grain boundaries but also within Al2O3 grains, and SiC whiskers were located at the grain boundaries. SEM observations showed that the abnormal grain growth of Al2O3 was inhibited by TiC particles.
