Research status and development of Ti(C,N)-based cermets

Ti(C,N)-based cermets have become the important candidate materials for the conventional and high-temperature structural components due to the excellent comprehensive properties. In recent years, the research on Ti(C,N)-based cermets has gradually shifted from the composition design and fabrication processes to the microstructure control and gradient materials. By introducing the novel binder phases, such as high-entropy alloys and intermetallic compounds, the “core-ring” structure modulation, the synergistic enhancement of strength and toughness, and the construction of gradient structures have been achieved through the advanced techniques as spark plasma sintering, microwave sintering, and additive manufacturing. The recent advances in Ti(C,N)-based cermets were systematically reviewed in this article, regarding binder phase optimization, gradient microstructure control, and green sintering. The low-cobalt/cobalt-free bonding systems, the multi-scale gradient structures, and the regulation mechanisms on the microstructure and properties by atmosphere sintering, spark plasma sintering, and 3D printing were mainly discussed.