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Microstructure and mechanical properties of metal/ceramic-matrix composites

Stratigaki Maria

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Summary

The aim of this research was to fabricate metal-ceramic composites with enhanced mechanical properties via a suitable processing route (slip-casting) followed by sintering under a reducing atmosphere. Four different compositions were fabricated including samples of: (i) pure alumina, (ii) alumina reinforced with metallic copper, (iii) alumina reinforced with metallic tungsten, (iv) alumina reinforced with mixed tungsten and copper. The composites were characterized in terms of their macro- and micro-structure, their mechanical response was evaluated, and the structure was correlated to the mechanical properties. The sintered samples exhibited a sufficiently dense microstructure over the entire metal loading range and a rather high density for low additions of metallic particles. A uniform structure and a homogeneous distribution of second-phase inclusions was achieved, which was attributed to the processing route that has been followed. The composites exhibited notably enhanced fracture properties derived from the dispersion and even distribution of (small amounts of) metal particles in the ceramic matrix. The accompanying reduction in stiffness and hardness was due to the addition of the softer metal particles, but was not compromised, and followed a theory-based trend after the corresponding correction for residual porosity and metal content.

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