High Resolution Scanning Electron Microscopy Observations of Nano-Ceramics

Ceramic materials are widely used for their excellent performance in applications where other types of material may fail. Possible applications are in situations where materials have to withstand high temperatures, corrosive environments and severe wear. However, metals instead of ceramics may possess mechanical properties that better meet the demands upon mechanical loading. In current research programs in the field of materials science and engineering, a substantial amount of effort is put in the development and design of combining the specific properties of metals and ceramics [1]. However, the presence of dissimilar materials will lead to differences in expansion and contraction upon heating or cooling of the material. Both effects may be a source of internal stresses in the material that may persist after the production process and may alter the mechanical performance of the final product in a negative sense.