| Abstract Scope |
In this study, the physical, mechanical properties and microstructural behaviors of 3 mol % Yttria-Stabilized-Zirconia (3YSZ) matrix reinforced with 10 vol.% of alumina were investigated. The composites were developed separately through Conventional Sintering (1600 °C, 5 °C/min and held for 6 hours) and Microwave Sintering (1600 °C, 25°C/min and held for 1 hours) under pressure-less condition. The powders were compacted using a uni-axial cold isostatic pressure of 200 MPa. The relative density, average grain size, microhardness and fracture toughness of conventional sintered samples and microwave sintered samples were found to be (98.16±0.15, 600 nm, 16.81±0.7GPa and 4.9 MPa m1/2) and (99.29±0.10, 421 nm, 19.65±0.5GPa and 5.2 MPa m1/2), while the thermal conductivity was found to be 2.3 W/mK and 2.6 W/mK, respectively. A uniform microstructure was observed in both the sample. The microwave sintered samples were observed superior results compared to conventional sintered samples, which may be more useful in the field of the thermal barrier coatings and dental applications. |