Anodization‐induced crack healing behavior in Al₂O₃/TiC composites at room temperature

This study demonstrated the room‐temperature crack healing behavior in non‐metallic phase composite ceramics. For this purpose, Al 2 O 3 /TiC composites were electrochemically anodized to heal these cracks and recover their fracture strength at room temperature. The anodization characterization of TiC, crack‐healing behavior, and bending strength recovery mechanism were systematically investigated. The results indicated that TiC‐induced crack‐healing behavior was primarily attributed to crack bridging by volume‐expanded oxides and relaxation of surface residual stresses. Both anodization time and current density can enhance the crack healing ability. Although complete recovery of bending strength was not achieved, anodization proved to be an effective crack‐healing method at room temperature. A current density of ∼2 A/dm 2 and a duration of ≤1 h yielded substantial recovery of bending strength. By anodizing Al 2 O 3 /TiC composites, we demonstrated the crack healing function of non‐metallic healing phases using anodization at room temperature. Although complete crack healing and strength recovery were not achieved, it is of great significance to repair non‐operating temperature cracks in ceramics to enhance their mechanical properties and reliability.