High-frequency induction heating sintering of ultra-fine Al2O3-(ZrO2+X%mol Y2O3) bioceramics

Alumina-zirconia composites Al2O3-20 vol. % yttria stabilized zirconia containing two types of yttria stabilized zirconia: 3mol% yttria doped ZrO2 and 8mol% yttria doped ZrO2 were consolidated very rapidly to full density by high frequency induction heating sintering (HFIHS). A comparison between 3YSZ and 8YSZ as a second phase toughening alumina has been made. Effects of sintering temperature on the mechanical properties have been studied. The consolidated samples were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The microhardness, strength and toughness of the composites are determined. The results showed that, 3YSZ is most effective as a second phase toughening alumina then 8YSZ. Al2O3-3YSZ composites with higher mechanical properties and small grain size were successfully developed at relatively low temperatures through this technique.