Sol-Gel Alumina Nano Composites for Functional Applications

The thesis entitled "Sol-Gel Alumina Nano Composites for Functional Applications" investigate sol-gel methods of synthesis of alumina nanocomposites special reference to alumina-aluminium titanate and alumina-lanthanum phosphate composites. The functional properties such as thermal expansion coefficient and thermal shock resistance, machinability of composites as well as thermal protection are highlighted in addition to novel approach in synthesis of composites.A general introduction of alumina matrix composites materials, followed by brief coverage of alumina-aluminium titanate and alumina-lanthanum phosphate composites is highlight of the first chapter. The second chapter deals with the sol-gel synthesis of aluminium titanate and alumina-aluminium titanate composite. The synthesis of machinable substrate, based on alumina and lanthanum phosphate forms the basis of the third chapter. The fourth chapter describes the sol-gel coating of mullite on SiC substrate for the possible gas filtration application.