Consolidated nanocomposite materials with controlled properties

The use of modern methods of consolidation of ceramic materials in combination with approaches of organic and inorganic chemistry, sol-gel technology and mechanochemistry allows controlling the processes of phase synthesis at the molecular level and creating highly effective composite materials. The properties of composites based on refractory compounds become size-dependent when the particle size is reduced to the nanoscale. The paper presents the results of the synthesis and consolidation of nanocomposites based on SiC, ZrO2–Y2O3, and WC. The microstructure, phase composition, and mechanical properties are studied, and the mechanisms for strengthening and increasing crack resistance are substantiated. It has been shown that the introduction of WC nanoparticles into the ZrO2 matrix contributes to the formation of a finely dispersed structure with high density and an increase in hardness, compressive strength, and crack resistance. The results obtained indicate the possibility of using such nanocomposites in structural and tool materials for operation under conditions of intensive wear.