Ti3AlC2 Triggered In Situ TiC–Ni3(Al, Ti) Synergistically Reinforced Ni Matrix Composite: Microstructure and Mechanical Properties
摘要
In the present study, a novel Ni matrix composite reinforced with in situ duplex TiC and Ni3(Al, Ti) phases is successfully fabricated by reactive hot-press sintering Cu@Ti3AlC2 and metallic Ni powders. Through high-energy ball milling, Ti3AlC2 particles are predominantly coated with Cu, which greatly prompted particle dispersion and interfacial compatibility with the Ni matrix. Microstructural characterization demonstrates that Cu completely diffused into the Ni matrix. The in situ L12-ordered Ni3(Al, Ti) phase is ultrafine (about 92 nm) in the T30C20N50 composite, whereas it grows to 1 to 2 μm in the T40C20N40 composite. In situ submicron TiC particulates are penetrated by Ni(Cu) phase, indicating the superior wettability. The T40C20N40 composite exhibit optimal mechanical performance, including a Vickers hardness of 5.82 GPa, compressive strength of 1519 MPa, flexural strength of 1047 MPa, and apparent fracture toughness of 28.13 MPa·m1/2. The enhancement of mechanical properties is attributed to the synergistic effect of austenitic solid solution strengthening, dispersion strengthening, and dislocation strengthening mechanisms.