Growth of ultrafine Ti(CN) particles in Ti(CN)–Ni cermets

The growth and coalescence of ultrafine Ti(CN) particles was investigated by transmission electron microscopy in conjunction with a hot stage. In situ TEM observations showed extensive particle growth and coalescence in the temperature range of 800–900 °C prior to liquid formation. The presence of defects produced during the milling process facilitates the growth of Ti(CN). The growth of Ti(CN) particles to their final size occurred largely during the initial heating stage of sintering.