Prediction and validation of buckling stress (σcrt) of the ceramic honeycomb cell walls under quasi-static compression

Alumina- and cordierite-based honeycombs with varying relative densities were extruded and sintered at the respective sintering temperatures. Solid samples are also prepared under identical conditions and flexural strength (σf) was estimated by three-point bend measurements. Buckling stress of honeycombs are predicted based on σf using standard equations and validated with quasi-static compression test along the channels of honeycombs with varying relative densities. The discrepancy observed on calculated and measured values is correlated with the pre-existing flaws indicating the criticality in close control of processing parameters.