Cavitation erosion of samples based on cordierite-talc ceramics

In the paper, the cavitation resistance of cordierite samples with the addition of 10%, 15% and 20% talc, sintered at 1200?C, was investigated. The ultrasonic vibration method with a stationary sample according to the ASTM G32 standard was applied. The formation and development of damage to the surface of the samples was monitored using a scanning electron microscope and the level of damage to the surface of the samples was quantified using image analysis. The change in the mass of the samples as a function of the cavitation time was monitored to determine the cavitation rate. By measuring the mass loss and morphological analysis of the pits formed on the surface of the sintered samples of the cordierite-talc ceramics, the mechanism of degradation and resistance to the effect of cavitation was monitored. The obtained results were compared with the results of earlier tests of cavitation resistance of sintered cordierite samples. The addition of talc in the mixture with cordierite significantly improved cavitation resistance of the sintered material compared to sintered pure cordierite. The tests were done to see the potential application of this material in hydrodynamic conditions, especially because of the strong corrosion resistance of these refractory materials.