Dilatometric measurements of sintering of samples from ultrafine powders of zirconium oxides, aluminum and their mixtures

The results of measuring the shrinkage of samples from ultrafine powders of zirconium oxides, aluminum and their mixtures in continuous air heating at a rate of 10 degrees /min in the range from 20 to 1650 oC are presented. The shrinkage curves and its rate are discussed from the perspective of the probable mechanisms of solid-phase sintering for each type of oxides and their mixtures. It was revealed that a solid solution of partially stabilized zirconium dioxide with yttrium oxide has increased activity to diffusion processes. This is manifested at a relatively low temperature of the beginning of active sintering (900 oC) compared to aluminum oxide (1150 oC). Rational ratios of zirconium and aluminum oxides in a mixture for the production of aluminum-zirconium ceramics with a high level of strength properties have been established. Ill. 8. Ref. 12. Tab. 2.