Structural Analysis of the Newly Prepared Ti55Al27Mo13 Alloy by Aluminothermic Reaction

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Metallurgy
• Surface Engineering

Background:

• Conventional processing of high-melting-point elements like titanium and molybdenum presents challenges.
• Developing advanced materials with superior wear resistance, oxidation behavior, and thermal stability is crucial for demanding applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize and characterize a novel Ti55Al27Mo13 alloy via aluminothermic reaction.
• To investigate the alloy's microstructure and elemental composition for potential use in composite nanopowders and surface coatings.
• To assess the material's potential for enhancing the performance of various substrates under mechanical and thermal stress.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of the Ti55Al27Mo13 alloy using an aluminothermic reaction.
• Elemental analysis employing X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS).
• Microstructural characterization using laser confocal microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
• Hardness testing to quantify mechanical properties.

Main Results:

• The alloy's composition was confirmed, including Ti, Al, Mo, and minor elements (Si, Fe, C).
• A heterogeneous microstructure was observed, featuring solid solutions, eutectic regions, and dispersed oxide/carbide phases.
• Exceptional hardness values were recorded: >2400 HV in Al2O3 regions and ~1300 HV in Mo- and Si-enriched solid solutions.

Conclusions:

• The developed Ti55Al27Mo13 alloy exhibits a complex microstructure and high hardness, indicating suitability for advanced applications.
• The material shows significant promise as a precursor for composite nanopowders and protective surface coatings.
• Further testing is warranted to validate its tribological, thermal, and corrosion performance in target applications.