Silicon nitride and sialon ceramics

The most intriguing recent development in the field of silicon nitride ceramics has undoubtedly been the discovery of a cubic form of silicon nitride. Major advances were made in α-SiAlON ceramics, including the development of thermally stable, in situ reinforced grades. Significant achievements were reported in tailoring the mechanical properties of silicon nitride ceramics through control of secondary phase chemistry and grain morphology.