X-ray Tomographic Method to Study the Internal Structure of a TiNi-TiB₂ Metal Matrix Composite Obtained by Direct...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Additive Manufacturing
• Non-Destructive Testing

Background:

• Additive manufacturing (AM) is a rapidly advancing field requiring robust quality control.
• Non-destructive methods like X-ray computed tomography (CT) are crucial for analyzing 3D structures in AM.
• Modern CT scanners provide high-resolution 3D imaging for material characterization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the structural evolution of TiNi-TiB2 metal-ceramic composites produced by direct laser deposition.
• To correlate the additive manufacturing process with the resulting material structure.
• To quantify porosity and analyze structural heterogeneity.

Main Methods:

• X-ray computed tomography (CT) was employed to analyze the TiNi-TiB2 composite.
• The study followed the structural changes during the additive manufacturing process.
• Porosity was calculated, and structural features were examined in detail.

Main Results:

• A direct relationship was established between the layered direct laser deposition method and the product's layered structure along the growth direction.
• The average porosity of the TiNi-TiB2 composite sample was determined to be 1.96%.
• Structural heterogeneity was observed, including distinct layer boundaries and density variations between inner and outer regions, with spherical and keyhole pores present.

Conclusions:

• Direct laser deposition of TiNi-TiB2 composites results in a layered structure influenced by the build direction.
• CT analysis effectively revealed structural heterogeneities and porosity, crucial for quality control in AM.
• Understanding these structure-process relationships is vital for optimizing AM of metal-ceramic composites.