Mechanical properties evaluation of hot-pressed Si 3N 4–SiC (w) composites

Abstract

Silicon nitride based ceramic composites have been prepared using an alternative development route, aiming to reach properties for structural applications. The prepared compositions were silicon nitride based matrix with aluminum nitride and yttrium oxide, as sintering aids, reinforced with silicon carbide whiskers. The powders were grounded/homogenized directly as received. Samples were obtained by uniaxial hot-pressing and, physical (specific mass, X-ray diffraction and microstructural analysis) and mechanical (microhardness, fracture toughness and flexural strength) properties were determined. The resulting high fracture toughness values were related to crack deflection and crack bridging toughening mechanisms, observed by SEM.