Liquid phase sintering of CMCs based on clinker Portland

Portland clinker is normally used as the main component in cement manufactu ring. It is a mix of different oxides and silicates suitable for the produc tion of low cost structural ceramics. In this work, it is used as raw mater ial in making ceramic matrix composites fit for use as structural ceramic. The sinterability of Portland clinker with different oxides (Al2O3, MgO and SiO2) and other ceramic enhancers (CaF2) is evaluated by dilatometry and d ensity in response to temperature. The manufacturing process includes mixin g, followed by cold isostatic pressing at 180 MPa and sintering in air at t emperatures between 1100 and 1420 degrees C. At these temperatures the sint ering is carried out with liquid phase, demonstrated by optical and scannin g electronic microscopy (SEM). There are indications of reactivity between the base material and the additives. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rig hts reserved.