B016 Laser-assisted Precision Machining of Yttria-stabilized Tetragonal Zirconia Polycrystals with Optimal Wavelength

Abstract

When a Y-TZP workpiece is heated to 600 °C and is machined with a cutting tool, the shear stress on the workpiece does not induce transformation of the crystal. In this study, a precision cutting method for sintered Y-TZP, namely, ultraviolet-laser-assisted machining (UV-LAM), is proposed. This method benefits from a decrease in the fracture toughness of Y-TZP at high temperatures and its good optical absorption in the UV range.