Influence of tungsten carbide particles on resistance of alumina matrix ceramics to thermal shock

The mechanical properties and thermal shock behavior of the hot pressed alu mina matrix ceramics, with added 6 vol.% tungsten carbide particles, was in vestigated. The thermal shock resistance of the materials was evaluated by water quenching and subsequent three-point bend testing of flexural strengt h diminution. The hot-pressed composite exhibited 70 degreesC higher temper ature differential of thermal shock resistance than the monolith, as well a s increased fit-rural strength and fracture toughness. The calculation of t hermal shock resistance parameters for the composite and the monolith gives a possible explanation for the differences in thermal shock behaviour. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.