Alumina–titania ceramics prepared by microwave sintering and conventional pressure-less sintering

Nanostructured alumina–titania composite powders were used to prepare alumina–titania ceramics by microwave sintering and conventional pressure-less sintering. The effect of microwave sintering and conventional pressure-less sintering on densification, microstructure and properties of alumina–titania ceramics were evaluated. The results showed that the alumina–titania ceramic prepared by microwave sintering exhibited shorter sintering time, significantly enhanced densification, higher density, finer and more homogenous microstructure, higher strength, higher hardness and higher fracture toughness when compared with conventionally processed counterpart.

► Alumina–titania ceramics were prepared by microwave and pressure-less sintering.
► Nanostructured alumina–titania composite powders were used as raw materials.
► The microwave sintered ceramic exhibited enhanced densification and higher density.
► The microwave sintered ceramic showed finer and more homogenous microstructure.
► The mechanical properties of the microwave sintered ceramic were much improved.