Abstract

The microstructures and indentation fracture of pressureless-sintered DyNbO_4 crystalline were investigated as a basic study for the application of weak phase of fibrous monolithic composites. They were comprised with many lamella twins as well as micro-cracks at the grain boundaries. The hardness at room temperature was remarkably low value(575 Hv) due to the low relative density and existence of microcracks at grain boundaries. The main fracture mode was a typical intergranular fracture, and showed remarkable micro-cracking effect. The heavy plastic deformation was observed around the site of indentation. In addition, the DyNbO_4 was expected to apply as a weak phase in the fibrous monolithic composites because of the low hardness and easily plastic deformation that could be led the preferable pulled-out and microcracking toughening under the failure.

• Keywords: Pressureless-sintered DyNbo_4;Microstructures;Fracture characteristic;Fibrous monolithic;