Effect of Whisker Diameter on Mechanical Properties, Oxidation Resistance and Cutting Performance of Titanium Carbide Whisker/Alumina Composites

Alumina matrix composites mixed with titanium carbide whiskers up to 30vol% were fabricated by hot-pressing at 1600°C under 30MPa for 30min. Two kinds of titanium carbide whiskers having different diameters were used as a reinforcing agent. Mechanical properties, oxidation resistance and cutting perfomance for cast iron were studied. The addition of thin whiskers had a tendency to obstruct the densification of composite body. However, bending strengths at room temperature and 1000°C and oxidation resitance of the composites containing thin whiskers were higher than those of the composites containing thick whiskers. On the other hand, no remarkable difference in Vickers hardness and fracture toughness was observed concerning to the effect on the whisker diameter. The composites containing thin whiskers showed the cutting performance superior to those containing thick whiskers.