Superhard TiB2 - Based Composites with Different Matrix Fabricated from Elemental Powders by SHS-p-HIP

Abstract

TiB2 is a superhard, high-temperature and high corrosion resistant material and it is under consideration for tungsten-free cutting tools and high temperature structural applications. Although such a covalent compound requires significantly elevated temperature for the consolidation, great exothermicity of TiB2 synthesis by means of SHS (Self-propagating High-temperature Synthesis) can be “ïn situ” utilized. In this study, TiB2-based composites are fabricated from titanium, boron and binder metal. In order to optimize consolidation process and improve fracture toughness of the products, three types of binder, based on cobalt, nickel or copper were investigated. In respect to hardness, limited amount of binder, 5, 10 or 15 vol.% respectively, were applied; each time 5 vol.% of Ti addition for reaction with boron completeness was used. The TiB2 based composites were fabricated from elements in one process by means of the SHS process combined with p-HIP (pseudo-hot isostatic pressing) method. The raw elemental powders were homogenized by wet mixing using ball milling technique. Dried mixtures were pressed into a compact, coiled by heating element and then exposed to the SHS-p-HIP process. After SHS initiation, the compact was pressed pseudo-isostatically under pressure of 190MPa for 5 min. The sintering additives and their concentrations significantly affected the consolidation process as well as the properties of composites. The highest hardness was obtained for samples sintered with cobalt, containing intermetallic binder. However, elemental metal binder was detected as a main component for samples sintered with copper. The relative density, SEM microstructure, phase composition and hardness are compared in this study.