Sinterability of Y2O3-Al2O3 particulate stainless steel matrix composites

P/M 316L austenitic stainless steel has been reinforced with yttria and alumina particles. In order to improve the sintering behaviour of these composite materials, chromium diboride and boron nitride were added. The sinterability of the different materials has been characterised through dilatometry and sintering curves (sintered density vs. sintering temperature). A metallographic study by SEM coupled with microprobe hall also been performed. Composites materials present a good densification. Chromium diboride and boron nitride react with the matrix in different manners, but they both greatly improve the sinterability of reinforced materials. The optimum sintering temperature for these composites materials is 1250 degrees C.