A review of thermal shock behavior of ceramics: Fundamental theory, experimental methods, and outlooks

The thermal shock resistance of ceramics is a key factor for determining the durability of ceramic components under transient thermal conditions and is also one of the key factors for evaluating the stability of ceramics under extreme thermal conditions. After rapid heating or cooling, the surface and internal thermal stress mismatches of ceramics can cause severe thermal damage. Two main types of ceramic thermal shock exist: rapid cooling and rapid heating thermal shock. This article presents a broad understanding and insight into fundamental theory and experimental methods for ceramic thermal shock testing. The experimental equipment and procedures, test result evaluation, and material characterization of ceramic thermal shock are summarized. Moreover, outlooks and perspectives are discussed for testing and characterizing ceramic thermal shock resistance. This review will be helpful to researchers performing studies in the relevant fields of ceramics.