The course deals with processing, structure and properties of advanced ceramics possessing a combination of properties not found in other classes of materials. Emphasis is placed on understanding the brittle nature of ceramics through the concept of linear-elastic fracture mechanics. The relationship between microstructure (eg. grain size, porosity and phase content) and mechanical properties (eg. strength, toughness and hardness) is developed using crack opening displacement analysis. The role of anisotropy and residual stresses in the development of high strength ceramics and structures is also discussed. Different mechanisms for the sintering of advanced structural ceramics are also covered along with forming and densification of high performance carbides, nitrides and oxides.
