Preparation, microstructure and properties of Al2O3–ZrO2–C slide plate material in presence of nanoscale oxides

Low carbon Al2O3–ZrO2–C refractories with nano-oxides are prepared at 1500 °C in graphite embedded condition using tabular alumina, reactive alumina powder, zirconia-mullite, zirconia-corundum and flake graphite as well as nano-ZrO2, nano-TiO2 and nano-Al2O3 powders as additives. The effects of nano-ZrO2, nano-TiO2 and nano-Al2O3 powders as single additive on the properties and microstructure of Al2O3–ZrO2–C material are investigated. The results show that nano-oxides take the catalytic effect in SiC nanowires (NWs) formation and growth, leading to increasing in length-diameter (L/D) ratio of SiC NWs. Samples with nano-oxides addition possess improved sinterability, thermal shock resistance and oxidation resistance.