In my literature review SIC microwhiskers reinforcement improves flexural strength of cermets.In my case SUbstituting 1W%sic in Carbide/bi nder cermets reduced it by 60%.The cermet binder powders were mixed in a ball mill for 24 hours in ethanol.SIc whiskers were sonicated for 30 min and then added to the mix after 22 hours(2 hours mixing with added whiskers)..The slurry was dried in a vaccum oven for 4 hours at 60 celcius .powders were sieved in 80 mesh and then pressed into die 25x5mm at 200Mpa.I followed due procedure in reported literature.I dont thing agglomeration at 1wt% should happen.I cant try 0.5wt% substitution though..please find attached sample picture and 3p bent test data.views please and possible solutions?

decreased from 820Nm/mm2 basecermet to 364nm/mm2 sic1wt%.

plz find attached file for 3pbd data