Preparation of particle-reinforced mullite composite ceramic materials using kaolin and IG-017 bio-origin additives.

In this research work, the possibilities of producing advanced ceramics from traditional, relatively inexpensive raw materials were studied. Powder mixtures from kaolinite and IG-017 bio-original additive were milled and uniaxially pressed to pellets, then pre-sintered in the electric kiln under oxidation and oxygen-free atmosphere at 1250°C. The pre-sintered specimens were then further sintered in nitrogen gas at 1600°C. The produced specimens were tested on composition, microstructures and morphologies using several characterization techniques including X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDAX). The conducted experiments by the authors have shown that it is possible from traditional kaolinite to develop technical ceramic specimens with increased physical and mechanical properties based on formed amorphous phases, mullite crystals, micro and nano carbon fibers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]