Optimization of SiC-TiC Composite Manufacturing by Electroconsolidation Method

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Ceramic Engineering

Background:

• Silicon carbide (SiC) materials are vital for wear resistance, thermal protection, and quantum technologies.
• Efficient manufacturing methods for SiC-based ceramics are actively sought.

Purpose of the Study:

• To optimize the electroconsolidation sintering of SiC-TiC composites.
• To investigate the impact of titanium carbide (TiC) content on composite properties.
• To analyze the influence of sintering parameters on SiC-TiC composites.

Main Methods:

• Spark plasma sintering (SPS) at 45 MPa.
• Varied titanium carbide (TiC) content.
• Adjusted sintering temperature (1900-2000 °C) and time (30-45 min).
• Utilized 2D and 3D vector spaces for process optimization analysis.

Main Results:

• Composites with 40 mol% TiC showed 0% porosity, increased crack resistance (2.9 to 6.1 MPa·m^0.5), and hardness (2.9 to 21.5 GPa) compared to sintered SiC.
• Increased sintering temperature from 1900 °C to 2000 °C enhanced composite hardness by ~30%.
• Extended sintering time from 30 to 45 min decreased fracture toughness and hardness.

Conclusions:

• Electroconsolidation via SPS is an effective method for producing high-performance SiC-TiC composites.
• Optimized TiC content and sintering parameters significantly improve mechanical properties.
• A novel vector space methodology aids in describing manufacturing process optimization.