On the Lapping Mechanism of Sintered A1₂O₃ Ceramic Surfaces Using Diamonds

Abstract

In this paper the material removal mechanism during lapping of A1₂O₃ ceramic surfaces is discussed. Powders containing 95% A1₂O₃ were consolidated into green compacts by employing different compaction pressures. The green compacts were subsequently sintered and lapped using synthetic diamonds of different size. The morphology and the chemical composition of the polished surfaces and the lapping debris were examined by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive x-ray Analysis (EDAX) and x-ray diffraction (XRD). Based on the experimental observations, the effect of the diamond grit size and of the initial porosity on the surface integrity and the material removal mechanism were investigated. An interpretation is proposed for the nature and the formation of the plastically deformed layer produced on the polished surfaces.