Surface Strengthening of Zirconia Toughened Alumina (ZTA) Using Glass Infiltration Technique

Molten Soda lime glass (SLG) was penetrated into the surface of ZTA at 1500°C for the holding time of 1 to 10 h. The depth of the glass penetration increased with increasing holding time. The thermal expansion mismatch and elastic property mismatch between the penetrated glass and ZTA produced residual compression in the surface region during cooling. This residual compression enhanced the flexural strength and fracture toughness remarkably.