The subject of this research is the processing and characterization of nanocrystalline alumina and yttria stabilized zirconia ceramics. Two approaches will be taken for the processing of nano-sized powders, namely consolidation by plastic deformation and consolidation by wet-processing. For plastic deformation green bodies will be subjected to high shear stresses at moderate temperatures to accomplish pore closure without extensive grain growth. In wet-processing the focus will be on particle-particle interactions and the resulting domain cluster size as related to the final grain size of the consolidated ceramic. The resulting materials will be tested for superplasticity, ionic conductivity, and other properties of interest. This research will develop the scientific and technical understanding necessary to produce bulk nanocrystalline ceramics for electronic and structural applications.
