Low pressure hot pressing of B4C matrix ceramic composites improved by Al2O3 and TiC additives

B4C matrix ceramic composites toughened by Al2O3 and TiC were prepared by low pressure hot pressing. The relative density, Vickers hardness, fracture toughness and flexural strength of the new fabricated composites were measured. Microstructure observations of the fracture surfaces and the indentation cracks of the B4C matrix ceramic composites were analyzed, and an X-ray diffraction phase analysis was performed. The experiment results showed that chemical reactions took place during the low pressure hot pressing process and resulted in the B4C/Al2O3/TiB2 composite. The densification rate of the B4C matrix ceramic composites was enhanced and the mechanical properties were improved via the introduction of Al2O3 and TiC additives. The Vickers hardness, fracture toughness and flexural strength of the composite with the addition of 4.7 wt.% Al2O3 and 10 wt.% TiC were 24.8 GPa, 4.8 MPa m1/2 and 445 MPa, respectively.