Description of Al2O3 powders coated by Ni–P particles obtained through an electroless chemical reaction and possibilities to obtain an Al2O3/Ni–P composite

A chemical electroless method for Ni–P deposition on the surface of Al2O3 powder with the use of phosphate baths has been presented. The possibility of ceramic/metal nanocomposite formation by sintering the coated powders at temperatures of 1200 and 1400 °C is described. The results of the sintering process showed that at both sintering temperatures, Ni–P becomes a liquid. Moreover, the beginning of the sintering process of the ceramic matrix at 1400 °C was observed. This temperature is lower than required for the sintering of pure Al2O3 (1600 °C). This result indicates the possibility to decrease the sintering temperature of Al2O3/Ni–P composites.