Microstructure of the TiC-Al₂O₃-Fe cermets fabricated by SHS/PHIP

Dense TiC-Al₂O₃-Fe cermets were produced by self-propagating high temperature synthesis and pseudo-hot isostatic pressing (SHS/PHIP). The microstructure of the product was analyzed. The results show that the particle size of TiC becomes small and uniform as Fe content increasing. It is favorable to eliminating the small pores between TiC and Al₂O₃ particles. The interfacial bonding between Fe and Al₂O₃ was smooth. A thin diffusion layer was found between Fe and TiC. Cellular structure probably being DO₃ type alloy as Fe₃Al matrix was found in Fe-binder phase. A great amount of dislocations were found in TiC particle due to the quickly pressing in the processing of SHS/PHIP.