Abstract:
In this study, alumina-zirconia (3-9 wt% ZrO2) composites were produced form tetragonal (t-phase) and monoclinic (m-phase) zirconia and alumina powders. The formulated compositions were ground in an attrition mill for 10 hr. Then thet were each pressed into pellets and sintered in air atmoshpere at temperatures ranging from 1500-1650 ํ C. The relative density, phase transformation, mechanical properties and microstructures of the composites were investigated. The results show that zirconia grains inhibit grain growth of alumina matrix. Vickers hardness and fracture toughness increase with increasing of zirconia content and the maximum Vickers hardness and fracture toughness are 19.5 GPa and 3.05 MPam 1/2, respectively.