Ti–TiC Composites by Thermal Explosion in Mechanically Activated Ti–xC Powder Blends (x = 1.0–6.3 wt %)

Warmup of mechanically activated Ti– x C powder mixtures ( x = 1.0, 2.1, 4.2, and 6.3 wt %) in a furnace preheated to 800°C was found to result in thermal explosion (volume reaction) in mixtures with x = 4.2 and 6.3 wt %. Activated powder mixtures and combustion products were characterized by XRD, optical metallography, and SEM/EDX. Combustion products represented metal-matrix Ti–TiC composites containing different amounts of strengthening agent. Our results may turn interesting to those engaged in deposition (cladding) of protective Ti–TiC coatings using reactive Ti–C mechanocomposites as a starting material.