Microstructure and mechanical properties of Al₂O ₃/ZrO₂ composites prepared by gelcasting

Microstructure and mechanical properties of zirconia-toughened alumina (ZTA) composite ceramics prepared by gelcasting process were investigated. The results indicated that Al₂O₃-ZrO₂ composites have high bending strength and fracture toughness for the solid loading of the suspension > 50vol.%. The bending strength and fracture toughness of sintered ZTA ceramics reach values as high as 631.5 MPa and 7.64 MPa- m^1/2, respectively, with solid loading of suspension being 55vol.%. The t-ZrO ₂ content is increased, and the uniformity of ZrU₂ particle distribution is improved in sintered samples prepared by gelcasting compared with those by dry pressing.