Ceramics-Silikáty 60, (1) 41 - 47 (2016)

This paper reports on the effect of NdB₆ addition on densification and properties of ZrB₂. NdB₆ powder (2.5,5 and 10wt.%) was added to ZrB₂ powder and consolidated by hot pressing. It was found that NdB₆ addition assisted in densification of ZrB₂ at lower hot pressing temperature of 1750°C. Formation of solid solution was observed at the interface of ZrB₂ and NdB₆ phases. Hardness was found to be slightly increased by 2.5wt.% NdB₆ addition but decreased by 5 and 10% NdB₆ addition. Fracture toughness of composite is found to be higher than the monolithic ceramic. It was found that composite samples have excellent oxidation resistance at 900°C in air.