Published online by Cambridge University Press: 25 February 2011
Additions and revisions to several of the most important phase diagrams and phase behavior diagrams in the silicon nitride field are reviewed in this work, with emphasis on the Y-Si-A1-O-N system. This information is further used to make observations on the promising silicon nitride systems containing either highly refractory grain boundary phases or compatible matrix phases of desirable properties. Examples are provided to illustrate the advantage of such a basic approach to materials design. Hardness, toughness, strength at room temperature and elevated temperature and even sinterability can all be improved by adopting such an approach.