Microstructure and mechanical properties of FeCrCoMnNi matrix composites reinforced by TiC particles

FeCrCoMnNi matrix composites reinforced by TiC particles were prepared by mechanical ball milling and spark plasma sintering. Effects of TiC mass fraction and sintering temperature on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the composites were evaluated. The results show that, the composites are composed of the face-centered cubic matrix, TiC, and Cr₂₃C₆ carbide reinforcements, and the content of Cr₂₃C₆ formed by the reaction between Cr and C increases with the increase of TiC content. The reinforcements distribute relatively uniform in the composites fabricated at 1000 ℃, when the TiC mass fraction is 1%~9%. The sintering temperature has a significant effect on the microstructure and mechanical properties. The samples sintered at 1000 ℃ or 1050 ℃ have the relatively uniform microstructure and exhibit the better mechanical properties. The hardness and room temperature yield strength of the samples with 7%TiC are about 2.5 times and 3.0 times respectively of that without TiC, due to the strengthening effect of both TiC and Cr₂₃C₆ carbide reinforcements.