Fabrication of strong and tough alumina ceramic with isotropic textured microstructure at low temperature

High strength and toughness are contradictory in ceramic materials. Improving the toughness of ceramics through the introduction of a ductile phase to dissipate energy is usually at the sacrifice of strength, stiffness, and the ability to operate at high temperature. Here we developed a simple approach to fabricate isotropic alumina monolithic ceramic characterized by a unique combination of high strength (405.4 MPa), high toughness (5.62 MPa m1/2) and thermal shock resistance toughness (746.2 °C), displaying a non-brittle fracture behavior. A clear picture of the toughening mechanism was depicted. This work highlights a practical guideline for development of bioinspired structural alumina ceramic.