Testing the product

The O-Sialon produced is then subjected to a series of tests to measure it’s physical properties and assess it’s worth as a ‘new’ advanced ceramic. Here, the sample is being tested for thermal shock resistance by heating it up and then plunging it in cold water. Other tests include porosity, density, hardness and fracture toughness.

Acknowledgement: Alan Wright, IRL (now Callaghan Innovation)