Zirconia matrix composite dispersed with stainless steel particles: Processing and oxidation behavior

Materials with non uniform properties are being developed to optimize several functions of industrial components in severe atmospheres at high temperature. These composites called M(p)-CMC(s): “ceramic matrix composites dispersed with metal particles” are candidates for high-temperature structure materials as functionally graded materials (FGMs) such as intermediate components between electrolyte and interconnecting components in SOFC.Preparation of a model composite M(p)-CMC(s) is described. Powder metallurgy process is used to obtain a dense composite (98% of the theoretical density) based on yttrium stabilized zirconia for the ceramic part and on 304L stainless steel for the metallic part. The characteristics of this material as well as its behavior under oxidation at high temperature are reported.