The influence of nano-silica and zircon additions on the sintering and mechanical properties of in situ formed forsterite

•Sintering and mechanical properties of investigated samples were studied. Sample Z0 has the highest value of porosity (∼51.42%). Zircon additions enhanced the densification parameters (BD ∼3.22g/cm3 and AP ∼5.83%). High mechanical properties (CCS ∼285.04MPa and Hv ∼660) were achieved. SEM examination observed a good crystallinity of in situ forsterite formation. The influence of nano-silica and zircon additions on the sintering and mechanical properties of in situ formed forsterite fired at 1550°C for 2h was investigated. The results indicated that, nano-silica improved in situ formed forsterite at the firing temperature, while zircon additions enhanced the sintering of the investigated samples. XRD analysis and SEM examination observed a good crystallinity of in situ formed forsterite with nano-silica and/or zircon additions. Densification parameter (BD ∼3.22g/cm3 and AP ∼5.82%), cold crushing strength (CCS ∼285MPa) and micro-hardness (Hv ∼660) were enhanced with zircon additions.