Abstract
A study of powder structure and its effect on the sintering tendency of certain alumina-based ceramic systems, that is, Al2O3-SiO2 and Al2O3-ZrO2, was carried out to improve their mechanical strength and fracture toughness. The compacting behavior and the sintering characteristics were optimized through control of various parameters such as composition, compaction pressure, sintering temperature, and time. Best densification was obtained for mixtures prepared using very fine and deagglomerated alumina powders.