ISSN:
1551-2916
Source:
Blackwell Publishing Journal Backfiles 1879-2005
Topics:
Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Production Engineering, Mining and Metallurgy, Traffic Engineering, Precision Mechanics
,
Physics
Notes:
A processing strategy is presented for obtaining alumina-spodumene ceramics with controlled microstructures from a new, low-cost alumina powder and spodumene (Li2OAl2O3·4SiO2) mineral, both being produced in Western Australia. The addition of 15 wt%β-spodumene to alumina is used to produce ceramics with (i) high thermal expansion mismatch and (ii) a glassy phase to aid in liquid-phase sintering. Specifically, the effects of spodumene addition and grain size on tolerance to thermal shock are addressed. The thermal shock resistance of the alumina-spodumene ceramics is evaluated by water quenching and subsequent three-point bend testing of strength diminution. Comparisons are made with results from parallel experiments conducted using a pure monolithic alumina ceramic. The reference alumina shows the expected substantial strength losses when thermally quenched from ∼200°C above room temperature. By contrast, the alumina-spodumene ceramics, while displaying reduced strength relative to the reference aluminas, exhibit minimal strength degradation under severe thermal shock conditions.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1151-2916.1999.tb01841.x
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