Structural Evolution of Silicon Nitride-Titanium Nitride Composites During High-Temperature Creep

The flexural creep of hot-pressed Si sub 3 N sub 4 -TiN composites was studied in air between 1100 and 1300 deg C. An increase in TiN content leads to higher creep rates of the samples. Changes in the microstructure and composition of the specimens after creep tests were investigated. Based on the correlation of creep parameters and microstructural changes, deformation mechanisms of the composites are discussed. It was established that the formation of a TiN skeleton could detrimentally affect the creep behavior of HPSN.