Abstract

This paper reports the effect of sintering processes and additives on the microstructures and mechanical properties of ZrB_2-SiC composite ceramics. We fabricated sintered bodies of ZrB_2-20 vol.% SiC with or without sintering additive, such as C or B_4C, densified by spark plasma sintering as well as hot pressing. While almost full densification was achieved regardless of sintering processes or sintering additives, significant grain growth was observed in the case of spark plasma sintering, especially with B_4C. With sintered bodies, mechanical properties, such as flexural strength and Vickers hardness, were also examined.

• Keywords: ZrB_2-SiC;Composite ceramics;Sintering processes;Sintering additives;Microstructures;Mechanical properties;