Influence of Toughening Method on Microstructures and Mechanical Properties of Alumina-Matrix Composites

Various toughening methods, i.e. partially stabilized zirconia transformation toughening, transformation- SiC whisker reinforcing and transformation-SiC particle reinforcing were used to improve the mechanical properties of alumina ceramic. Influence of various toughening methods on microstructure and mechanical properties of the alumina-matrix composites were studied. On the basis of transformation toughening, by which the strength and toughness of Al2O3 ceramic improved simultaneously, the addition of SiC whisker substantially enhanced the toughness, whereas the addition of SiC particle increased both toughness and strength to a certain degree. Mechanical properties of the testing materials were closely related with their morphologies of fracture surfaces. Toughening mechanisms of the composites were also studied. In the transformation-whisker reinforced composite or the transformation-particle reinforced composite, the two toughening methods affected with each other and produced a cooperative toughening effect.