Influence of Sintering Process Conditions on Microstructural and Mechanical Properties of Boron Carbide Ceramics Synthesized by Spark Plasma Sintering

Boron carbide (B(4)C) ceramics were synthesized by spark plasma sintering at a temperature between 1600 and 2050 °C without employing any sintering additives. The effect of sintering process parameters, such as temperature, holding time, pressure, hearting rate, and pulsed electric current, and the particle size of the raw powder on the densification behavior and mechanical properties of B(4)C ceramics, were comprehensively and systematically investigated. Hardness and fracture toughness of B(4)C that has a density close to the theoretical value were found to be 33.5 ± 0.2 GPa and 3.21 ± 0.13 MPa·m(1/2), respectively. Electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) analysis revealed no abnormal growth of grains due to an increase in holding time and pressure. Twin structures present in ceramics are beneficial for their mechanical performance.