Microstructure and Thermal Shock Resistance of LaPO₄-ZrO₂

Abstract:

LaPO4-ZrO2 composites were prepared by slip casting and pressureless-sintered in air. The effects of LaPO4 addition on microstructure and thermal shock resistance were addressed. The thermal shock resistance of the composites was evaluated by air quenching and a subsequent three-point bending test to determine the strength degradation. Comparisons were made with results from parallel experiments conducted using a ZrO2 ceramic without LaPO4 additions. The reference ZrO2 ceramic showed the expected substantial strength losses when thermally quenched from 470oC above room temperature. By contrast, the LaPO4-ZrO2 ceramics, while displaying reduced strength relative to the reference ZrO2 ceramics, exhibited minimal strength degradation under severe thermal shock conditions.