Mechanical Properties of Boron Phosphides

Resumo

Microstructure and mechanical properties of bulk polycristalline boron phosphides (cubic BP and rhombohedral B₁₂P₂) have been studied by scanning electron microscopy and micro- and nanoindentation. The obtained data on hardness, elastic properties and fracture toughness clearly indicate that both phosphides belong to a family of hard phases and can be considered as prospective binders for diamond and cubic boron nitride.