Creep Behavior of a SiC‐Whisker‐Reinforced Alumina

Abstract

Creep tests in four‐point flexure loading configuration in air employing applied stresses of 37 to 300 MPa at temperatures of 1200°, 1300°, and 1400°C were performed on 20‐vol%‐SiC‐whisker‐reinforced alumina and unreinforced single‐phase polycrystalline alumina. The creep rate of polycrystalline alumina was significantly reduced through the addition of SiC whiskers, although strain to failure was lower. Transmission and scanning electron microscopy results suggest that substantial increase in the creep resistance in flexure of alumina composites originates from the retardation of grain‐boundary sliding by the SiC whiskers.