Comparison of the Properties of TiC/Fe-AI Composites Produced by Self-Propagating High-Temperature Synthesis and Hot Isostatic Pressing

Abstract

Self-propagating high-temperature synthesis (SHS) and hot isostatic pressing (HIP) techniques were used to produce TiC-20 wt.% Fe-Al and TiC-40 wt.% Fe-Al composite materials. The microstructure of the materials produced by the SHS technique consisted of spherical carbide particles embedded in an iron aluminide matrix whereas the microstructure of the materials produced by the HIP technique was less regular. A maximum hardness of 1820 HV was measured for the material produced using HIP and a maximum fracture toughness of 16.3 MPa 1/2 was obtained for the material produced by SHS. Hardness values obtained from samples produced by the HIP technique were higher than those obtained from samples produced by the SHS technique. The SHS samples had better fracture toughness. The results of the oxidation resistance tests showed that TiC/Fe-Al composite materials can be recommended for use in oxidative environments holding temperatures up to 800°C.