Work

Effect of Cu additions and SHS charge compaction pressure on thermite-copper infiltration and the macrostructure of synthesized TiC–Cu cermets

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: TiC–Cu ceramic–metal composites (cermets) have been extensively discussed in recent literature in terms of their properties and structure. However, in most cases the formation conditions considered involve the introduction of TiC particles into an overheated Cu melt. In the present work, samples were synthesized in air without crucible reactors by combining a thermite reaction to produce a copper melt for subsequent infiltration of a porous Ti + C powder charge and initiation of its combustion by self-propagating high-temperature synthesis (SHS) of titanium carbide. As a result, TiC–Cu cermets were formed. The effect of Cu addition to the Ti + C SHS charge and of compaction pressure on the completeness of infiltration by the copper melt generated during combustion of the copper thermite mixture is analyzed. The influence of these factors on the structure of the synthesized cermets is also examined. TiC–Cu cermets were synthesized with 5, 10, and 15 wt. % Cu added to SHS charges compacted at 22, 34, 45, 56, and 69 MPa. The completeness of infiltration was evaluated from the appearance of polished sections, microstructure, and phase composition. Optimal conditions were identified that provide composites with maximum density, minimal structural defects, the desired phase composition, and enhanced mechanical properties. The microstructure, composition, and physico-mechanical properties (density, Brinell hardness, compressive strength) of the new composites were investigated. It was established that the highest infiltration completeness and density of TiC–Cu samples are achieved at 10 wt. % Cu addition to the SHS charge and a compaction pressure of 45 MPa, while increasing Cu content in the charge leads to higher mechanical properties (hardness and compressive strength).

Source: Powder Metallurgy аnd Functional Coatings

DOI: 10.17073/1997-308x-2025-6-52-64

Authors: E. A. Karakich, E. R. Umerov, V. A. Novikov, P. E. Kichaev, A. P. Amosov

Institution: Samara State Technical University

Language: English

Topic: Advanced materials and composites

Subfield: Ceramics and Composites

Field: Materials Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Funder: Russian Science Foundation

Award: G8497923799