Effect of layer interfaces on the high-temperature mechanical properties of alumina/zirconia laminate composites

High-temperature plastic deformation of laminar composites containing layer s of Al2O3 and a mixture of 85 vol.% Al2O3 + 15 vol.% 3 mol% Y2O3-stabilize d tetragonal ZrO2 (ZTA) produced by sequential slip casting is examined in uniaxial compression testing. The mechanical behavior is compared with that of monolithic Al2O3 and ZTA synthesized by the same technique. The layered composites exhibit better creep properties at low strain rate than either of the two constituent materials. The good interfacial adhesion of the laye rs imparts creep resistance and ductility simultaneously to the laminates. (C) 2000 Acta Metallurgica Inc. Published hy Elsevier, Science Ltd. All rig hts reserved.