Modification of ZrO2 ceramic by continuous and pulsed electron beams in the forevacuum pressure range

Abstract

We describe our study of the treatment of ceramics based on zirconium dioxide (ZrO2), partially stabilized with yttrium oxide (Y2O3) (5.15 % wt.), by continuous and pulsed electron beams in the forevacuum pressure range. We find that continuous electron beam treatment at certain heating rates can lead to changes in the surface structure, with increase in roughness and change in crystalline phase composition. High heating rate leads to increase in the cubic phase of ZrO2. The results of irradiation by a pulsed electron beam depends on the pulse energy density and pulse power of the beam, with noticeable changes in the surface characteristics when the energy density reaches about 10 J/cm2; increased roughness of the ceramic surface is observed at this energy density. Further increase in pulse energy density (>10 J/cm2) and/or power can lead to increase in roughness by an order of magnitude. A change in color of the ceramic surface and formation of a layer with a columnar structure is observed when the energy density reaches 21 J/cm2 at a pulse power of 320 kW. These results show the suitability of electron beam treatment for controlled modification of zirconium dioxide ceramic materials.