ABSTRACT
Pure cordierite and cordierite - ZrO2 composites containing 10, 20 and 30 wt% Y2O3
stabilized ZrO2 have been prepared by dispersing ZrO2 powder in cordierite sol. The
evolution of crystalline phases and the microstructure have been studied using X-ray
diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. It was found that increasing both ZrO2
content and firing temperature enhanced the bodies' density. Mullite net and rods
crystallize in the composite matrix when it heat treated at 1450°C. The beneficial effects
of mullite and ZrO2 on the bending strength of the fabricated composites have been
described.