Abstract
High‐density whisker‐reinforced composites of an alumina‐30 vol% glass matrix material were produced by hot‐pressing in the temperature range 1350° to 1400°C in air. Significant improvement was observed in the strength of composites containing 15 vol% SiC whiskers, up to ∼550 MPa, but with only a small effect on the fracture toughness. In composites containing Si3N4 whiskers, no reinforcement was achieved. Transmission electron microscopy showed the formation of a protective layer of amorphous silica on the SiC whiskers, while the Si3N4 whiskers were found to react with the matrix. The mechanical properties were related to the microstructure and the density of the samples.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
