Optimisation of the synthesis of glass-ceramic matrix biocomposites by the "response surface methodology"

In this work a Bioverit(R) III glass-ceramic matrix composite, containing Yttria-stabilised zirconia (Y-PSZ) particles as toughening phase, was prepared, with the aim of improving the glass-ceramic mechanical properties. In order to prepare the composite, a pressureless sintering process has been optimised. The aim of the work is to determine the best processing conditions, i.e. time and temperature of sintering. For this purpose traditional methods (thermal, morphological and mechanical analysis) have been supported by the statistical method called "Response Surface Methodology" (RSM). On the basis of these studies two sintering series have been performed, so that we could determine the region where the best process conditions could be found. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.