Densification Behavior, Crystal Structure and Microstructure of Yttria Stabilized Zirconia (8Y -CSZ) with CuO Additions

Yttria-stabilized Zirconia (8 Y-CSZ) is a good candidate as a solid electrolyte in fuel cells, oxygen sensors, and combustion controllers in furnaces. Crystal structure and densification behavior of 8 Y -CSZ with CuO additions in a small amount (up to 1 mole %) were studied using XRD and a thermo-mechanical analyzer (TMA). The addition of CDO in small amounts (up to 1 mole %) to 8 Y-CSZ has no effect on the crystal structure. The CuO additions in small amounts enhanced the densification of 8 Y -CSZ and shifted the maximum shrinkage rate to a lower sintering temperature. Although, the shrinkage of the powder compacts containing higher amounts of CuO (1 mole %) started at a lower temperature, the maximum shrinkage was detected in the powder compact containing lower CuO content (0.3 mole %). This value was found to be the optimum percentage addition to produce sintered compacts of high density and fine grain microstructure at a relatively low sintering temperature (1250 degree C)