Spark plasma sintering and characterization of ZrC-TiB 2 composites

Abstract

Abstract ZrC-based composites were consolidated from ZrC and TiB 2 powders by the Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS) technique at 1685 °C and 1700 °C for 300 s under 40-50-60 MPa. Densification, crystalline phases, microstructure, mechanical properties and oxidation behavior of the composites were investigated. The sintered bodies were composed of a (Zr,Ti)C solid solution and a ZrB phase. The densification behaviors of the composites were improved by increasing the TiB 2 content and applied pressure. The highest value of hardness, 21.64 GPa, was attained with the addition of 30 vol% TiB 2 . Oxidation tests were performed at 900 °C for 2 h and the formation of ZrO 2 , TiO 2 and B 2 O 3 phases were identified by using XRD.