Alumina–mullite ceramics for structural applications

New dense alumina–mullite ceramics developed using two formulation approaches have been studied. They include the materials based on alumina with a remarkable content of mullite and the materials based on alumina and containing mullite, zirconia and zircon formed via high-temperature interaction of alumina and zircon. Both types of materials have uniform fine-crystalline microstructures, a remarkable level of physical properties, high ballistic performance and high wear resistance. Ballistic performance and wear resistance are considered as a function of phase composition and microstructure of the studied ceramics.