Effect of Er2O3/MgO ratio on mechanical and thermal properties of Si3N4 ceramics

Abstract

AbstractSi3N4 ceramics with high mechanical properties and thermal conductivity, exhibiting fine and bimodal microstructure, were prepared by adjusting the Er2O3/MgO ratio and hot‐pressing sintering at 1800°C for 4 h. The microstructure, grain distribution, lattice oxygen content, mechanical properties, and crack propagation process of the sintered bulk samples were systematically investigated. It was found that a low Er2O3/MgO ratio contributed to the densification of Si3N4 ceramics, whereas a high Er2O3/MgO ratio favored the grain growth of Si3N4 ceramics. In this research, the grain size distribution and average diameters as well as their impact on mechanical properties were examined. When the ratio of Er2O3/MgO was 3:1, Si3N4 had a larger average diameter and higher thermal conductivity, but the mechanical properties were somewhat reduced. When the ratio of Er2O3/MgO was 2:2, the sample displayed enhanced mechanical performance, which can be explained by the formation of a bimodal structure. The research indicates that it is feasible to control the microstructure and optimize the mechanical properties of Si3N4 ceramics by tailoring the sintering additives.