Formation of microstructure in bauxite ceramics

The effect of TiO^sub 2^ additives on the formation of the microstructure of bauxite ceramics is considered. It is shown that the thialite phase formed in the roasting process "cleans" the corundum phase and the glass phase from impurities. The thialite grains reinforce the corundum matrix, hamper the growth of corundum grains in roasting, and improve the resistance of the material to crack propagation when it fractures. Playing the role of bridges connecting the "banks" of a crack, thialite grains enhance the crack resistance of the material.[PUBLICATION ABSTRACT]