Effects of ZrO2 nanoparticle content on microstructure and wear behavior of titanium matrix composite

Abstract

The Ti-ZrO2 nanocomposites were fabricated by powder metallurgy route. The influence of ZrO2 additions on the microstructure and properties of the Ti-based composites were examined by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, microhardness and wear properties tests. The result showed that spread of ZrO2 nanoparticles in the Ti matrix. XRD refers to no new phase are formed between Ti and ZrO2 during the sintering process. In addition, a good microstructure is achieved. The densification behavior of the sintered nanocomposites is increased with increasing ZrO2 percent. The highest microhardness was measured as 570 HV for titanium matrix nanocomposites fabricated by using 10%wt of ZrO2 nanoparticles content. 290 HV was obtained for the titanium matrix. Results showed that the sliding wear rate increase with increasing the normal load and decrease via increasing the addition of ZrO2 nanoparticles. In addition, the friction coefficient decreases with increasing the normal load and via increasing the addition of ZrO2 nanoparticles. The microstructure refines due to ZrO2 addendums illustrated a considerable function in the wear behavior of the Ti matrix.