Abstract
Four ZrB 2 composites were prepared by hot-pressing with different content of ZrO 2, i.e., 0, 10, 20 and 30 vol%. By means of the indentation-strength method, damage tolerance and resistance-curve ( R-curve) behavior were investigated for ZrB 2–ZrO 2 composites. Under the indentation load of 196 N, retained strength of monolithic ZrB 2 was only ∼89 MPa, however, that value could reach ∼281 MPa for ZrB 2–30 vol%ZrO 2 composite. Obvious R-curve behavior was further found in ZrB 2–ZrO 2 composites compared with monolithic ZrB 2. Regarding ZrB 2–30 vol%ZrO 2, the steady-state toughness was ∼6.5 MPa m 1/2. Such improved toughening effect was attributed to the crack bridging and transformation toughening of ZrO 2.
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