Published online by Cambridge University Press: 25 February 2011
This paper reports on the fabrication of microcrystalline β-SiAlON components by direct nitridation of polymeric green compacts. The preceramic material was obtained from a polycarbosilane modified with an aluminum alkoxide. The microstructural transformation from the polymeric bodies to the final dense ceramic components was monitored by several techniques such as BET, XRD and dilatometry. Mechanical characterization, performed by indentation at various stages of the conversion process, will also be presented.