A porous ceramic body protected by a damage resistant hardened surface, and a
method
for preparing the surface hardened ceramic body. The ceramic body is protected
by applying to the surface a slurry composition containing a binding agent, particles
of a ceramic material, at least one boron containing compound, and a solvent. The
inclusion of at least one boron containing compound in the slurry provides for
hardened surfaces that are stable to higher temperatures as compared to those of
the prior art.
