Mechanical properties of metal-particulate lead-silicate glass matrix composites obtained by means of powder technology

The great number of waste glasses leads to the need for new applications. The realization of matrices for innovative and cost-effective materials could be an interesting way. In the present work lead silicate glasses from cathode ray tubes (CRTs) dismantling are investigated. A low cost powder processing route is proposed for the manufacture of particulate aluminium reinforced glass matrix composites. These composites exhibit an anomalous mechanical behaviour which is thought to be due to a complex metal/glass interaction. In the case of limited metal/glass interaction good bending strength and fracture toughness are achieved. The obtained KIC level of about 1,20 MPa m0,5, together with observed crack control behaviour, appears to be very promising.