Synthesis of a precursor for an alumina ceramic reinforced by zirconium dioxide from inorganic compounds in the presence of urea

Samples of a precursor for an alumina ceramic reinforced by zirconium dioxide were synthesized. The samples have a uniform structure and are characterized by high ratios of the tetragonal and monoclinic modifications of ZrO2, tlm, after a thermal treatment (1250 degrees C). The structure of samples in the system Al2O3-ZrO2 is formed under conditions favorable for deposition of products of hydrolysis of Al(III) ions on the surface of ZrO2 sol particles in decomposition of urea. The coating of ZrO2 sol particles by products of hydrolysis of Al(III) salts was confirmed by electrophoresis. The size distribution of particles of the in?dividual ZrO2 sol was determined by small-angle X-ray scattering. The structure of the products formed in thermal treatment of samples of mixed oxides Al2O3-ZrO2 was characterized by X-ray phase analysis and scanning electron microscopy. The porosity and specific surface area of a thermally treated sample was determined by measuring nitrogen absorpt!