Dynamic sinter forging of yttria-stabilized zirconia ceramics with ultra-high flexural strength of ∼2000 MPa

High-performance zirconia ceramics were prepared by dynamic sinter forging (DSF). The effects of sintering temperature on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the samples are investigated. The results show that the flexural strength and toughness of the samples prepared at 1550 degrees C reached 1950 MPa and 7.1 MPa center dot m(1/2), respectively, with the flexural strength representing an exceptionally high value. The microstructural analysis shows that the DSF-made samples exhibited the following unique features: very thin grain boundaries, high-density dislocations, and great phase transformation capability upon external loading. These features are likely due to the reciprocating grain-boundary sliding during sinter forging. The excellent mechanical properties of the DSF-made samples are mainly due to the grain boundary strengthening, strain hardening, and phase transformation toughening. The development of DSF opens up a new path for the preparation of high-performance ceramics.