Co-Sintering Behaviors of Oxide Based Bi-Materials

Abstract

Bi-materials have attracted attention due to combination of properties that such structures can offer. A strong bond between two co-sintered oxide ceramics can provide novel properties. This study focused on the densification and the microstructural evolution during co-sintering of alumina (Al2O3)zirconia (Y-ZrO2) and alumina-spinel (MgAl2O4) bi-materials, produced by co-pressing of powders. High purity submicron powders were uniaxially pressed or co-pressed (150 or 250 MPa). The sintering behaviors of mono and bi-material bodies were investigated using a vertical dilatometer under constant heating rate conditions (from 1 to 10 degrees C/min up to 1580 degrees C). Microstructural characterizations focused on the interface and diffusion layers of bonded bi-materials. Best bonding without cracks were observed on alumina-spinel bi-materials. Macroscopic and microscopic observations are analyzed, interpreted and discussed considering shrinkage and thermal expansion mismatches, residual stresses, diffusion kinetics and oxide phase diagrams.