Multifunctional Si3N4/(β-SiAlON+TiN) layered composites

Layered multifunctional ceramic composites on the base of Si3N4 and TiN have been prepared by tape casting. The reaction conditions for in situ preparation of β-SiAlON + TiN composite were optimised and dense Si3N4/(β-SiAlON + TiN) layered materials were prepared by hot pressing. The bending strength and fracture toughness of layered materials measured in the direction perpendicular to the layer alignment were remarkably higher (1184 MPa and 9.75 MPa m1/2) in comparison to the “monolithic” β-SiAlON + TiN composite (647 MPa and 4.71 MPa m1/2). High anisotropy was achieved for the electrical resistance of the layered materials in parallel (6.10−2 Ω cm) and perpendicular (5×1011 Ω cm) direction to the layer alignment.