On the nanoindentation behavior of a TiC layer formed through thermo-reactive diffusion during hot pressing of Ti and cast iron

Abstract

Hot pressing of pure Ti and cast iron under vacuum formed a ∼15 µm wide TiC-layer through the thermo-reactive diffusion process. Nanoindentation testing of the TiC-layer revealed average hardness and elastic modulus values of ∼35 GPa and ∼400 GPa, respectively. High-resolution indentation mapping indicated hardness change across the boundary with peak values observed within the TiC-layer. Solid state high temperature diffusion holds significant potential for developing uniform hard coatings on pure Ti/Ti-alloys.