Preparation and Properties of the Intra-type Al2O3/Ag Nanocomposites

Alumina/silver (Al2O3/Ag) nanocomposites with Ag content up to 9 vol% were prepared from nanopowder by soaking method using gamma-Al2O3 of needle type and spark plasma sintering (SPS). The mechanical properties of specimens were investigated three-point flexural strength and toughness as a function of the Ag contents. The maximum flexural strength of the alumina/silver nanocomposite was 850 MPa for the 1 vol% composite, and also higher than monolith alumina as about 800 MPa at 3, 5, and 7 vol% Ag contents. Fracture toughness by single edged V-notch beam (SEVNB) was 4.05 MPa.m(1/2) for the 3 vol% composite and maintained about 4.00 MPa.m(1/2) at 5, and 7 vol% Ag content. Microstructure of fracture surface for each fracture specimens was observed. Due to the inhibition effect of alumina grain growth, the average grain size of nanocomposites depends on the content of Ag nano particles. The fracture morphology of nanocomposite with dislocation (sub-grain boundary) by silver nano-particles of second phases in the alumina matrix also showed transgranular fracture-mode compare with intergranular of monolith alumina. Thermal conductivity of specimens at room temperature was about 40 W/mK for the 1 vol% Ag content.