Microstructure of Dense Mullite Ceramics Prepared by Reaction Sintering of Kaolin and Alumina

Abstract

In order to develop dense mullite ceramics, the effect of particle size on the sintering characteristics and the resultant microstructures was investigated using kaolin and alumina as starting materials. Mullite ceramics with relative density larger than 97% were obtained by firing at 1650°C, using elutriated kaolin and submicron corundum powders or alumina sol. Particle size of alumina affected on the microstructure of dense mullite polycrystals.