Whisker-Driven Templated Grain Growth Enables [001]-Oriented Interlocking Microstructures and Phase Manipulation in Alumina-Mullite Fibres

Data Content and Acquisition

Methods

This dataset comprises three categories of files derived from characterisation of the synthesised whiskers and alumina–mullite fibres: XRD Data: Raw files were collected using a D/max-3c diffractometer (Rigaku) at 40 kV and 100 mA with Cu Kα radiation. Analysed results include phase identification via HighScore Plus and quantitative phase ratios determined by RIR semiquantitative analysis. SEM Images: Microstructural images were acquired using an S-4800 field-emission SEM (Hitachi) at 15 kV, with EDS (Bruker) for elemental mapping.

Grain diameter and porosity measurements derived from these images are included. TEM Images: Nanostructural characterisation was performed using a JEM-2100F field-emission TEM (JEOL). Images reveal fine-scale morphology, crystal structure, and defects or interfaces within the fibres.

Key Findings and Data Interpretation Preliminary analysis confirms the target crystalline phases via XRD, with RIR analysis providing phase ratios correlated to processing parameters. SEM reveals fibre morphology and elemental composition, while TEM discloses grain boundaries, lattice fringes, and secondary phases or defects. Collectively, these data support the correlation between processing conditions, phase evolution, and microstructural development, and can be reused for comparative studies or validation of computational models.