Abstract
The surface modification of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) was carried out using plasma treatment. The microstructures of the prepared cermets with different additions of MWCNTs were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Mechanical properties such as transverse rupture strength (TRS), fracture toughness (KIC), and hardness (HRA) were measured. The results showed that some reactive groups were successfully modified on the surface of MWCNTs, resulting in the improvement of dispersibility. Most of the amorphous carbons and impurities were peeled from the MWCNTs. Increasing MWCNT addition decreased the dissolution of tungsten, titanium, and molybdenum in the binder phase. The cermet with 0.5 wt% MWCNT addition showed the highest TRS and fracture toughness. The strengthening mechanisms were attributed to the finer grain size, the homogeneous microstructure, and the higher volume fraction of binder phase in the binder. The toughening mechanisms were characterized by bridging and pulling-out.
Highlights
Ti(C,N)-based cermets have attracted much attention because of excellent wear-resistance, high hardness at high temperature, perfect chemical stability, very low friction coefficient to metals, and superior thermal deformation resistance [1]
Compared with other modification methods, the plasma treatment method has been widely used for surface activation of various materials, such as organic polymer [15], metals [16], and ceramics [17], which was due to its nonpolluting character and shorter reaction time
multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) would not have any loss under the temperature below 1200 °C [18], while the working temperature during industrial applications of the cermets was under 1000 °C
Summary
Ti(C,N)-based cermets have attracted much attention because of excellent wear-resistance, high hardness at high temperature, perfect chemical stability, very low friction coefficient to metals, and superior thermal deformation resistance [1]. J Adv Ceram 2018, 7(1): 58–63 the MWCNTs are electrochemical treatment [12], polymer wrapping [13], and mechanic-chemical treatment [14]. Compared with other modification methods, the plasma treatment method has been widely used for surface activation of various materials, such as organic polymer [15], metals [16], and ceramics [17], which was due to its nonpolluting character and shorter reaction time. The MWCNTs modified by the plasma treatment method have not been reported up to date. Ti(C,N)-based cermets reinforced and toughened by carbon nanotube addition have been less focused. The plasma treatment method was used to modify the MWCNTs. The effects of MWCNT addition on the microstructures and mechanical properties of Ti(C,N)-based cermets were investigated.
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