Influence of Agglomerated Structure on Mechanical Properties of Alumina-Zirconia Composites

Abstract

Several agglomerated alumina powders were prepared and mixed with zirconia or zirconia rich virgin powder. Mixed powder were pressed and sintered by atmospheric sintering. Obtained specimens were served for four-point bending test and fracture toughness testing to investigate the influence of agglomerated structure on mechanical properties. SEM observation showed that the agglomerated alumina structures were dispersed in zlrconia rich matrix of all specimens. Some specimens also showed higher bending strength and/or fracture toughness than conventional alumina-zirconia composites.