Mechanical reinforcement of 3D printed cordierite-zirconia composites

Abstract In this study, composite ceramic slurries based on submicron-micron-sized cordierite-zirconia were prepared with varied zirconia content. Standard bending strength and fracture toughness testing samples were directly designed and fabricated using stereolithography 3D printing followed by different sintering schemes to study the mechanical reinforcement effect. The physical compositions and microstructures of the samples were characterized. The additively manufactured cordierite-zirconia composites exhibit excellent mechanical properties. Maximum measured bending strength (136 MPa) and fracture toughness (1.8 MPa m1/2) were reached by adding 2 wt% and 6 wt% zirconia, namely an increase of 44% and 66% relative to pure cordierite, respectively. The strengthening and toughening mechanisms of the composites were further explained mainly by microstructural analysis. This study provides an alternative and direct design and manufacturing method for the mechanical measurement and reinforcement of ceramic composite parts based on the use of 3D printing technology.