Effect of addition of TiO2 on reaction sintered MgO-Al2O3 spinels

Three different spinel compositions with MgO:Al2O3 molar ratios 2:1, 1:1 an d 1:2 were studied using TiO2 as an additive up to 2 wt.%. Solid state reac tion sintering technique was employed for all the compositions in the tempe rature range of 1550-1650 degrees C. Attrition milling was done for the red uction of particle size. Sintered products were characterised in terms of d ensification and shrinkage studies, phase analysis, strength evaluation bot h at ambient temperature and at elevated temperature, strength retention af ter different number of thermal cycles at 1000 degrees C, quantitative elem ental analysis and microstructural studies. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.