Structure, Properties and Phase Composition of Composite Materials Based on the System NiTi-TiB₂

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Metallurgy
• Composite Materials

Background:

• Nickel-Titanium (Ni-Ti) and Titanium Diboride (TiB2) are advanced materials with unique properties.
• Composite materials offer enhanced performance by combining the advantages of different constituents.
• Applications in aerospace, automotive, and engine construction demand high-performance materials.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the phase composition, structure, and mechanical properties of (Ni-Ti)-TiB2 composites.
• To evaluate the potential of these composites for demanding industrial applications.
• To optimize the synthesis and sintering processes for improved material characteristics.

Main Methods:

• Starting powder materials (Ni-Ti)-TiB2 were synthesized using self-propagating high-temperature synthesis (SHS).
• Research samples were produced via high-temperature vacuum sintering.
• Characterization involved analysis of phase composition, structure, particle size, microhardness, and ultimate strength.

Main Results:

• The synthesized composites achieved 95% of theoretical density.
• Average particle size was 1.54 µm.
• Average microhardness reached 8 GPa, significantly exceeding that of pure Ni-based and Ti-based alloys.
• Ultimate strength values were comparable to tungsten-based heavy alloys.

Conclusions:

• The (Ni-Ti)-TiB2 composites demonstrate excellent mechanical properties, including high microhardness and strength.
• The synthesis and sintering methods employed are effective in producing dense, high-performance materials.
• These composites show significant promise for applications in aerospace, automotive, and engine construction.