Abstract
The mechnical properties of 20vol%-SiC whisker reinforced A1203-matrix composites were investigated. Composites are produced using two types of whiskers with 0.5μm and 0.8μm in diameter respectively. Also, α and γ alumina were used as starting materials for matrix. The composites were prepared by hot pressing mixtures of alumina powder containing 20vol% SiC whisker. Composites with thick whisker are found considerably toughened compared with those with finer whikers.The maximum flexural strength reaches 900MPa for the composite with thicker whisker prepared by using γ-alumina as matrix.
Optical microscope observation of the ground surface of the composites and scanning electron microscope observation of the fracture surface of the composite indicate presence of crack deflection and whisker-pullout in toughened composite.
