Influence of a Phase Content and Particle Size Distribution of Powder on Properties of Si3N4

Abstract

The influence of a phase content and particle size distribution of Si 3 N 4 powder synthesized by a metallic silicon direct nitridation method on the mechanical properties and microstructure of sintered body was investigated. The number of fine grains having high aspect ratio increased with the increase in a phase content of powder, resulting in high flexural strength and fracture toughness of sintered body. On the other hand, the grain size distribution of sintered body had a close relation with the particle size distribution of raw powder.