LIU Yangai, ZHOU Yu, JIA Dechang

(Harbin Institute of Technology)

Abstract: LiTaO₃ could coexist with Al₂O₃ matrix during the sintering process . LiTaO₃/Al₂O₃ceramic composites were fabricated through three sintering routes .The microstructure and mechanical properties of them were investigated .It was shown that domain structures were clearly seen in LiTaO₃grains .The mechanical properties of the ceramic composite with modest amount of piezoelectric particles prepared by suitable sintering route were greatly improved .Energy dissipation due to domain wall motion is suggested as a new toughening mechanism in structural ceramics .

Keywords:Al₂O₃, LiTaO₃ ,mechanical properties , domain structure , toughening