Functionally Graded TiC-Based Cermets via Combustion Synthesis and Quasi-Isostatic Pressing

Experimental results on the preparation of functionally graded TiC-based cermets obtained by combustion synthesis (also known as Self-Propagating High-Temperature Synthesis, SHS) followed by quasi-isostatic (QIP) pressing in a granulate medium are presented. Pellets of TiC-Fe graded cermets are produced by stacking layers of Ti and C powder mixtures in which the content of a NiFe alloy (50 wt% Ni and 50 wt% Fe) is varied from 5 up to 25 vol %. X-ray diffraction showed that the NiFe alloy did not react with the TiC, thus preserving its special properties. Scanning electron microscopy results show a graded material with pores increasing in size towards the side with the highest ceramic fraction.