Investigation of micromechanical properties of fused alumina and silicone carbide grains

Abstract

Micromechanical properties of abrasive material grains of fused alumina and silicone carbide are investigated applying the microindentation method. Such parameters as microhardness, microbrittleness, and microstrength were evaluated depending on the penetration depth of the Vickers diamond pyramid to the 0.5 — 5.0 µm thick surface under analysis. The microhardness parameter is the stress required for formation of a brittle failure area within the pyramid imprint. The microbrittleness criterion defines the ratio of the brittle failure area within the imprint and the imprint area. The power-law dependence of the parameters on the pyramid penetration depth is established: the lower the depth, the higher are microhardness and microstrength, yet the lower is microbrittleness. The obtained results enable creation of a standard basis, forecasting of the performance level of abrasive tools, refractory and wear-resistant items, filters, and special ceramics.