Journal of Ceramic Processing Research, cilt.25, sa.5, ss.814-826, 2024 (SCI-Expanded)
In this study, Calcium Oxide (CaO) - Zirconium Dioxide (ZrO2) ceramics and their mullite-doped composite ceramics, which are among the advanced technology ceramics, are examined. During the production phase of the samples, first monoclinic zirconium dioxide was stabilized with calcium oxide (calcia) to obtain stabilized ZrO2. Subsequently, mullite additive was added to these composite mixtures at rates ranging from 0% to 10% by weight, and samples were produced. Not only the effect of mullite additive but also sintering temperature and durations on the microstructure and mechanical properties of CaO-ZrO2 ceramics was investigated. For each sample, sintering temperature parameters were determined to be in the range of 1500 °C-1600 °C, and sintering time parameters were determined to be in the range of 1-5 hours. The test and microstructural analysis results demonstrate that the introduction of mullite into the CaO-stabilized ZrO2 composites significantly enhanced the wear resistance. Moreover, it is discerned that sintering at comparatively lower temperatures and for shorter durations provides an augmentation in three-point bending strength, albeit accompanied by a general decrease in hardness.