Effect of carbides on the microstructure and properties of Ti(C, N)-based ceramics

Ti(C,N)-based ceramics that contained various carbides were prepared via pr essureless sintering, to study the effects of the carbides on the microstru cture and properties of the ceramics. All the systems showed good densifica tion behavior and formed solid solutions. Impurities introduced from the mi lling media were sufficient to promote the densification of the ceramics. T he grain structures of the systems were a function of carbide crystal struc ture and their affinity with nitrogen. Microhardness, three-point flexural strength, and fracture toughness of the Ti(C,N)-based ceramics were measure d and determined to be 16-18 GPa, 0.7-1.1 GPa, and 3.5-5.5 MPa.m(1/2), resp ectively.