Consolidation–microstructure–property relationships in bulk nanoceramics and ceramic nanocomposites: a review

AbstractAbstractThe recognition that bulk nanoceramic materials, having grain sizes typically 100 nm or finer, possess appealing mechanical, physical and tribological properties has generated considerable recent research activity. A major challenge in the research on bulk nanoceramics and nanoceramic composites is concerned with the aspect of processing, in particular restriction of grain growth during sintering. In this regard novel processing techniques have been developed with the aim of fabricating bulk ceramic nanomaterials. The superior properties exhibited by these bulk nanoceramics and ceramic nanocomposites, compared with conventional ceramic materials, have opened up prospects for their use in applications demanding better mechanical properties. The present review highlights outstanding issues related with the processing of nanoceramics and ceramic nanocomposites, discusses the novel processing techniques currently used to develop these materials, critically analyses the property modifications resulting from microstructural refinement and provides an overview of the structure–property correlations of some recently developed bulk nanoceramic materials. Potential fields of application for ceramic nanomaterials are surveyed. In conclusion, the unresolved issues related to bulk nanoceramic processing are considered and a perspective is given of areas of future research.Keywords: NANOCERAMIC COMPOSITESINTERINGMECHANICAL PROPERTIESTRIBOLOGICAL PROPERTIES