Synthesis of (Ti, W, Mo) CN based cermets with different carbides configurations for demanding applications: Study of the crystal structure, microstructure, and mechanical properties

Abstract

In this study, based on different element configurations within constant atomic ratio of elements, (Ti0.93W0.07Mo0.07)C–20%Ni and (Ti0.93W0.07Mo0.07)CN0.3-20%Ni derived cermets have been synthesized. The basis for the difference in the production route was whether the carbides were formed by carbothermic reaction from the metal oxide together or separately, or in the case of Mo2C, the carbide is added to the mixture together with the binder after reduction and just before consolidation. Another basis for the difference was whether the cermet was a carbide or a carbonitride. To investigate the influence of the different production routes, the crystal structure, microstructure, and mechanical properties of the cermets produced were examined using XRD, FESEM, STEM, and Vickers indentation. The XRD spectra of all the cermets were found to be very similar to those of TiC-based cermets, indicating that the additive carbides in the TiC or Ti(CN) phases of the cermets dissolve perfectly during the high vacuum sintering process at 1510 °C. The highest toughness (14.65 MPa m1/2) was obtained in (Ti0.93W0.07) C–8%Mo2C–20Ni cermets with a core-rim structure. In addition, the use of nitrogen leads to a dramatic reduction in particle size. The use of molybdenum and tungsten in the form of separate carbides had little effect on limiting the expansion of crystal size and grain size compared to the scenario where the dissolution of these elements took place within the primary core-rim structure. However, in terms of hardness and toughness, it was found that, in addition to grain size, the route taken in the addition of molybdenum and tungsten was also important.