Characterization of nano ceramic composite of Mullite-Magnesia-Yttria stabilized Zirconia system

The oxide and nano ceramic system of Mullite-Magnesia-Yttria Stabilized Zirconia were studied. Some fracture toughness models were examined to evaluate the crack length parameter to comply with Palmqvist and median crack criteria at c/a ratio equal to 3.0. The mullite crystal structure was observed using SEM and looks likely needle, whereas 3YSZ crystal appears smoother. Through EDS analysis, it detected the oxides in Mullite system, i.e., Al2O3, and SiO2. With a similar method, some oxides observed in the Mullite-Magnesia-3YSZ system such as MgO, Al2O3, SiO2, Y2O3, and ZrO2. With XRD analysis, nano MMZ system shows containing Al6Si2O13, Corundum (Al2O3), Zirconia (ZrO2), and Quartz (SiO2). Fracture toughness KIC of the ceramic composite of nano mullite-magnesia-zirconia complies with Palmqvist and median crack criteria. Nano ceramic particle shows a higher value of hardness and fracture toughness while compared with oxide ceramic system. (paper)