An enhanced strength Ni matrix composite reinforced by a 3D network structure of TiN nano-particles

• Main Authors: Rui Wang, Guoliang Zhu, Wenzhe Zhou, Wei Wang, Donghong Wang, Anping Dong, Da Shu, Baode Sun
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier 2020-06-01
• Series: Materials & Design
• Subjects: Ni based composites; 3D network; Mechanical properties; Spark plasma sintering
• Online Access: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0264127520301726
• ISSN: 0264-1275

Strengthening is a critical issue for improving the mechanical properties of ceramic particles reinforced metal matrix composites (CPRMMCs). A Ni matrix composite reinforced by TiN nano-particles (TiNNP) with a three-dimensional (3D) network structure was synthesized via low-energy ball-milling (LEBM) and spark plasma sintering (SPS). The ultimate tensile strength (UTS) of the TiN/Ni composite is 690 MPa, an increase of 383% compared to that of the Ni matrix. The 3D network structure of TiN nano-particles formed at the grain boundaries refines the grains significantly and generates a high density of dislocations near the TiN/Ni interface, synergistically contributing to the enhanced strength. Ceramic particles of 3D network structure may be a potential solution to achieving superior properties of CPRMMCs.