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U.S. Department of Energy
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Whisker-reinforced ceramic composites

Conference ·
OSTI ID:5601714

Substantial fracture toughness and strength improvements for alumina and mullite matrix composites have been demonstrated. Oxidation of the SiC whiskers in the alumina based composite is apparently by oxygen transport through the matrix and along grain boundaries. Densities of alumina-SiC whisker composites fabricated by pressureless sintering were a function of the whisker content. Densities greater than 95% of theoretical can be achieved with whisker contents of 10 vol %. The mechanical property gains of the whisker reinforced composites compared to monolithic ceramics are impressive. Even further improvements in mechanical properties can be attained by combining whisker reinforcement with either addition of zirconia particles.

Research Organization:
Oak Ridge National Lab., TN (USA)
DOE Contract Number:
AC05-84OR21400
OSTI ID:
5601714
Report Number(s):
CONF-860413-3; ON: DE86011058
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English