SMALL-SCALE MECHANICAL BEHAVIORS OF ZIRCONIA PROCESSED BY DIFFERENT TECHNIQUES
The miniaturization of sample dimension can alter the mechanical properties of materials by increasing the surface-to-volume ratio and decreasing the likelihood of retaining process-induced flaws. The knowledge of mechanical properties of ZrO2 at micro and nanoscale is critical in that superelasticity and shape memory effect of ZrO2 can be utilized for applications of actuation, energy-damping, and energy-harvesting at small scale. Here, we performed in-situ microcompression tests at various temperatures inside a scanning electron microscope to examine and compare the mechanical properties of ZrO2 prepared by flash sintering, spark plasma sintering, plasma spray, and thermal spray. Detailed microstructural analyses were conducted by transmission electron microscopy. The unique microstructures in ZrO2 prepared by field-assisted sintering largely improved their plasticity. Temperature and processing technique-dependent underlying deformation mechanisms and fracture behavior of ZrO2 are discussed.
Funding
Office of Naval Research N00014-17-1-2087
Office of Naval Research N0014-16-1-2778
History
Degree Type
- Doctor of Philosophy
Department
- Materials Engineering
Campus location
- West Lafayette