Stability ranges of Li-α′-sialons

The formation of α′-sialon using Li as a modifying cation was investigated. The effects of the Li content, firing temperatures and Si/Al ratios on α′-yield were studied. The results indicated that at lower sintering temperatures the stabilization of α′-sialons was obtained but the high weight losses of Li at higher temperatures limited the stabilization. Increased `Al' content in the compositions resulted in an increase in the stability of Li-α′-sialon at higher temperatures, by the formation of a liquid phase which retains Li in the system.