The primary drawback of using ceramic materials in structural applications is their inherent brittleness which results from strong bonding coupled with electrical balancing restrictions due to the metallic plus non-metallic nature of ceramic compounds. The Modulus of Rupture (MOR) test is the standard for determining the mechanical properties of ceramics (Flexural Strength and Flexural Modulus). Variations in Flexural Strength as a function of firing temperature and specimen size will be examined experimentally (MOR) and evaluated using the statistical t-test; large ceramic parts generally have lower strengths due to their higher probability of containing critical flaws.

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