Comparison among SANS Technique and Conventional Methods for Cavity Characterization in Superplastically Deformed Ceramic

Abstract

A novel small angle neutron scattering (SANS) method was applied for characterization of cavities in a 3Y-TZP subjected to superplastic deformations under different conditions, and the results were compared with conventional methods, i.e. SEM analysis and density measurement (Archimedes) method. Morphology of cavities formed in the 3Y-TZP specimens varied depending on the deformation condition and the dimension of the specimen. Effects of cavity morphology on the cavity characterization were investigated and were discussed for each method. It was found that: (1) The accuracy of the data obtained from SEM analysis was very sensitive to the morphology of cavities, while (2) Archimedes and SANS methods gave similar results, and showed good reliability for evaluation of bulk properties of cavities.