Influence of Composition on Self-toughening and Oxidation Properties of Y-α-Sialons.

Y-α-sialon ceramics with different compositions were hot-press sintered. Varying the m or n value in the α-Sialon general formula, both the α-sialon grain morphology and phase assemblages present diversification, therefore, affecting the toughness and hardness. Meanwhile, varying the compositional parameters also influenced the composition and structure of the intergranular glass phase, as well as its oxidation behavior at 1100–1200 °C. The oxidation of the intergranular phase M′ in the Y-α-sialon ceramics was significantly enhanced with further rising the oxidation temperature to 1300 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]