Processing and properties of zirconia-toughened alumina ceramics

Al2O3:ZrO2 ceramics have been prepared from physically mixed pure oxide powders. The results indicate that careful processing of the starting powders and a two-stage sintering process can avoid expensive processing methods like hot pressing/hot isostatic pressing used for achieving high densification. The mechanical properties were measured and the resultant microstructure studied to explain the toughening behaviour of this material. (author). 13 refs., 3 figs