Microstructure evolution and mechanical properties of YAG/YAG joint using bismuth-borate glass

Abstract Joining of Y3Al5O12 garnet single crystal (YAG) was achieved by using a bismuth-borate based glass filler. The thermal properties of glass filler were experimentally determined and the wettability of molten glass on YAG was investigated. The YAG reacted with glass to form ZnAl2O4 particles and Y2O3 nanowires successively as joining temperature is above 625℃. ZnAl2O4 preferentially nucleated and grew on Y2O3 nanowires. The cooperative growth of the two phases accelerated YAG decomposition, which in turn led to cluster growth of Y2O3 nanowires and aggregation of ZnAl2O4 particles at elevated temperature. The microstructure evolution and reaction mechanism were studied. The highest shear strength of 29.6 ± 5.2 MPa was obtained for the joint brazed at 650℃. The fracture morphology demonstrated that the dispersive strengthening of ZnAl2O4 and stress relief by Y2O3 nanowire network contributed to the superior mechanical performance.