TIN/TIB2 CERAMIC COMPOSITES – MODERN PRODUCTION APPROACHES AND MECHANICAL PROPERTIES

Abstract

This review examines the methods for obtaining TiN/TiB2 composites and their mechanical properties. It highlights the
benefits of spark-plasma sintering (SPS) and how different sintering methods affect the uniformity of distribution and reduction
in grain size, which in turn influences mechanical properties. The study confirms that the TiN/TiB2 composite's mechanical
characteristics depend on the ratio of the TiN and TiB2 components. When the ratio is optimized to 60 wt.% TiB₂ and 40 wt.%
TiN, the composite achieved through the SPS method, demonstrates a hardness of 22.8 GPa and a bending strength of 217
MPa, indicating a notably high performance for this type of composite. For improved crack resistance, it is recommended to
use compositions with 70–80 vol.% TiB₂, as this results in peak hardness around 26.3 GPa, although fracture toughness
decreases to 4.5 MPa·m¹/₂. The role of additives in both the consolidation process and the mechanical properties has been
assessed.