University of Hyderabad research team granted patent for alpha alumina platelets

The invention significantly enhances the fracture toughness of alumina parts by up to 80 per cent, while maintaining high flexural strength

Hyderabad: A University of Hyderabad research team from School of Physics led by Prof V Seshu Bai has been granted a patent for their innovative method of preparing ceramic composites reinforced with nanometric alpha alumina platelets.

The invention significantly enhances the fracture toughness of alumina parts by up to 80 per cent, while maintaining high flexural strength.

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The patented technology involves reinforcing alumina with alpha-alumina platelets coated with LaPO4, promoting crack deflection and energy dissipation during loading. This result in improved mechanical properties, particularly the crucial property of fracture toughness, in comparison with pure alumina parts, a press release said.

Since alpha-alumina is the most stable form of alumina, the composite can be used up to high temperatures without degradation and the composite’s stability and strength make it ideal for use in aerospace and automobile components, as thermal insulators, as dental implants etc.

The patent showcases a significant technical advancement in fabricating complex-shaped alumina ceramic parts with significantly improved fracture toughness and has the potential to benefit various industries.