Influence of processing on mechanical properties of 3Y-TZP for dental applications

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the influence of processing on the mechanical properties of 3 mol% yttrium–tetragonal zirconia (3Y–TZP) for dental applications. In this study, cold isostatic pressing (CIP) was adopted as a second consolidation process to enhance the mechanical properties of slip-cast 3Y-TZP. Methods: Two batches were prepared. The first batch of 3Y–TZP suspension was fabricated via colloidal processing. Then, the suspension was subjected to the slip casting process. Simultaneously, the second batch was prepared via colloidal processing, followed by CIP. The specimens were sintered at 1600 °C. Sintered density, hardness, microstructure, and phase distribution were examined and analyzed. Results showed that the specimens fabricated via slip casting and CIP had the highest density of 99% of the theoretical density (6.1 g/cm3) and hardness of 14.4 GPa. The microstructure of the CIP samples was homogeneous with low porosity. According to X-ray diffraction examination, both batches exhibited a single phase (tetragonal phase). Conclusion(s): The density, hardness, and homogeneity of the microstructure of Y–TZP fabricated via slip casting and CIP improved. Using CIP as the second consolidation method improved the quality of green bodies.