A Digital Library of Ceramic Microstructures

University Of Dayton, Dayton OH

Investigators

Abstract

This project is creating a digital library of microstructures for functional ceramics with emphasis on materials used for structural, electronic, and thermal applications. This library will be used in ceramic education to (1) illustrate the role of microstructure in dictating the macroscopic properties, (2) highlight changes in the microstructure resulting from degradation processes associated with the intended function, and (3) conduct virtual measurements of selected properties. Digital images of these materials are being collected and compiled into a master database. For each material, representative property data (e.g., strength and fracture toughness for structural ceramics, dielectric constant for the electrical ceramics, and thermal conductivity, thermal expansion, and compressive creep for refractories) are being included in the database as well. Software is being developed to (1) access this database via the Internet, (2) measure microstructural features such as grain size and distribution, (3) illustrate key property data appropriate for the microstructure being examined, and (4) conduct virtual measurements. The database and software is being beta tested and then refined based upon the results. Ultimately, the digital library of ceramic microstructures (DLCM) is being transferred to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and will be linked with an existing Web site, Ceramics WebBook, which provides a guide to data centers, tools, and resources. This project is a partnership among three universities, University of Missouri at Rolla, Georgia Tech, and North Carolina A&T; and the University of Dayton Research Institute. Significant co-funding of this project is being provided by the Office of Multidisciplinary Activities in the NSF Directorate for Mathematical and Physical Sciences in recognition of the emphasis on collections development in the area of materials science.