Model of two-step sintering conditions for yttria-substituted zirconia powders

▶ Two-step pressureless sintering of commercial TZP and YSZ zirconia ceramics is examined. ▶ Optima two-step sintering conditions are predicted from shrinkage data. ▶ Dense ceramics with truly controlled grain size are obtained. ▶ Minimum grain size of TZP is 100 nm. ▶ Minimum grain size of YSZ is 450 nm.