| Abstract Scope |
Al2O3 ceramics and their composites are used as cutting tools due to their superior mechanical properties. This study presents a comprehensive investigation of the influence of B4C content and particle size on the sinterability, microstructure, and mechanical properties of fabricated composites using Spark Plasma Sintering. The relative density of the composites increased, and residual porosity decreased as the B4C particle size in the powder blends decreased. The addition of B4C particles improved the mechanical properties of monolithic Al2O3, and the highest property enhancements were obtained for the composite with 30 vol% of the finest B4C particles. For this composition, with respect to Al2O3, density was reduced by 11%, and hardness, Young’s modulus, indentation fracture toughness, and flexural strength increased by 24%, 8%, 51%, and 88%, respectively. The effect of the B4C particle size on Youngs modulus in relation to existing micromechanical models reveals that the composites fit the Reuss model. |