Objective
The proposal is motivated by the Copernicus programme objective to preserve and further develop the research excellence of 2 newly independent states (NIS) ,Armenia and the Ukraine, in which there is complementary expertise to the Exporters. It is aimed specifically at the development of new engineering ceramics, involving innovative processing steps for both raw materials and ceramic laminate products, which is focussed on the resolution of a persistent problem in the substitution of the metallic engineering components by ceramics, concerning a lack of toughness. The problem will be resolved by novel processing to generate heterogeneous (composite) microstructures in which crack motion is inhibited by tailored residual thermal stresses and laminate interface chemistry. The project will initiate new ceramic industries and applications based on, environmentally safe and energy efficient metal machining.