Crystallinity, Microstructure and Mechanical Strength of Yttria-Stabilized Tetragonal Zirconia Ceramics for Optical Ferrule

Abstract

Yttria-stabilized zirconia ceramics were prepared by using different raw materials in order to compare commercially available optical ferrule. Injection-molded cylindrical green compacts were sintered in air at 1350°C, 1400°C and 1450°C for 2 hrs, followed by furnace cooling. Crystallinity, microstructure and mechanical strength of the sintered body were evaluated by using an X-ray diffraction analyses, a field emission-scanning electron microscope, a universal tester, and a micro-hardness tester, respectively. For practical usage, the sample B sintered at 1350°C was favorable because of high tetragonality and good mechanical strength.