Preparation and Properties of Y2O3-containingTetragonal Zirconia Polycristals (Y-TZP)

Starting from economic inorganic soluble salts of zirconium, ultrafine zirconia (specific surface area up to 124 m2 /g) containing 2.8 mol % of Y2O3, were prepared by hydrolysis and neutralization. The sintering behaviour of both powders was observed. High density Y2O3-containing tetragonal Zr02 polycrystals were achieved after firing in the temperature range 1300-1550°C. The mechanical properties of these ceramics were determined and the relationships between microstructure and mechanical properties are discussed.