3Y-TZP/Si2N2O composite obtained by pressureless sintering

Abstract

Y-TZP presents excellent properties at room temperature but these properties decrease as the temperature increases. This paper studies the behavior 20vol%Si3N4-SiC when added in YTZP matrix and heated under no pressure system. Al2O3 and Y2O3 were used to maintain the stability of the matrix and as sintering aids. The addition of Si3N4 and SiC in a Y-TZP matrix leads to formation of silicon oxynitride and it increases the mechanical properties like toughness and hardness. The mixture was milled and molded by CIP. Samples were heated at 1500ºC, 1600ºC and 1700ºC for 2h without pressure under atmospheric conditions in bed-powders of Si3N4. Samples were characterized by XRD. Density, hardness, toughness, bending strength were measured. The structure of the material was observed in SEM/EPMA to verify the distribution of the materials in the composite. The formation of Si2N2O was observed in the sintered material and it showed an increment of both hardness and toughness as temperature increases. The samples presented considerable resistance of oxidation at 1000ºC.