Diffusion bonding of ZrB2–SiC/Nb with in situ synthesized TiB whiskers array

The ZrB2–20 vol.% SiC (ZS) composites were diffusion bonded to Nb using pure Ti interlayer. Effects of joining temperature on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the joints were investigated. The results show that Ti reacted with Nb and ZS to form a typical three layers in the joint. An in situ synthesized TiB whiskers array which consisted of two types of TiB was produced in the reaction layer. The formation mechanism of TiB was analyzed. Mutual diffusion between Ti and Nb led to a ductile β-(Ti, Nb) layer on Nb side. Joining temperature influenced the thickness of reaction layers and distribution of TiB seriously. The maximum shear strength reached 158 MPa with bonding temperature at 1200 °C for 60 min.