Boron Carbide : Structure, Processing, Properties and Applications

Boron carbide is a superhard and lightweight ceramic material. As a result of these characteristics, it used as a protective component in bulletproof vests, tank armour and also has many other industrial applications (e.g., tooling, abrasives). Research on boron carbide remains active given a long-standing challenge to understand its complex failure behavior in extreme environments owing to its unique microstructure and mechanical properties, where many current efforts are underway to improve its behavior through microstructure alteration via additives that form secondary phases, chemical doping, and altering the chemical composition of the boron-to-carbon ratio in the crystal structure. This book covers some of the key challenges involving boron carbide that are currently being studied by many materials scientists and ceramists. The authors who are active in this research field have prepared the chapters for this book and specific topics covered highlight the state-of-the art research in structure, processing, properties and applications. The organization of the book is designed to provide an easy understanding for students and professionals interested in advanced material for novel applications.