With deep regards and profound respect, I avail this opportunity to express my deep sense of gratitude and indebtedness to Prof. Japes Bera, Department of Ceramic Engineering, N. I. T. Rourkela, for introducing the present research topic and for inspiring guidance, constructive criticism and valuable suggestion throughout this research work. It would have not been possible for me to bring out this thesis without his help and constant encouragement. I wish that he will keep in touch with me in future and will continue to give his valuable advice.