Mechanical and microstructural properties of titanium matrix composites reinforced by TiN particles

Particulate reinforced titanium composites were produced by PM route. Different volumetric percentages of TiN reinforcements were used, 5,10,15 vol%. Samples were uniaxially pressed and vacuum sintered at different temperatures between 1200-1300 degrees C. Density, porosity, shrinkage, mechanical properties and microstructure were studied. Elastic properties and strength resistance were analysed by flexural strength and tension tests, and after the test, fractured samples were analysed as well to obtain the correlation between the fracture, interparticular or intraparticular, and the level of reinforcement addition. Hardness and microhardness test were done to obtain a better understanding of its mechanical properties. In order to study wear resistance pin-on-disc tests were conducted. In addition, the influence of temperature, the reactivity between matrix and reinforcement on microstructural development were observed by optical and electron microscopy.