Abstract:In this paper, oscillatory pressure sintering technique (OPS) was used to prepare high quality zirconia ceramics. The effects of sintering temperature on the density, grain size, microstructure and mechanical properties of zirconia ceramics were firstly investigated. The results show that under the application of oscillatory pressure, the variation of relative densities is not obvious while the grain sizes significantly increase during the increased sintering temperature. All specimens reached a nearly full density as there was scarcely any pores on the polished surface. The highest hardness and bending strength of 16.6 GPa and 1455 MPa, respectively, are reached when the target temperature reaches 1300°C. Compared with conventional pressureless and hot pressure sintering process, the introduction of oscillatory pressure significantly reduces the densification temperature of zirconia ceramics, and evidently enhances mechanical strength and fracture reliability.