Superplastic ceramics

Abstract

The ability of some fine grained crystalline metals to exhibit very large elongations to failure, termed superplasticity, is being utilized to form complex-shaped components for aerospace and other applications. Recently, there has been considerable research activity into extending the concept of superplasticity to ceramics, and large strains to failure have been demonstrated in several fine grained ceramic systems. The paper reviews the mechanical properties of superplastic metals, and examines conditions favorable for observing superplasticity in ceramic