Prediction and analysis of microstructural effects on fabrication of ZrB2/(Ti,W)C composites

Zirconium diboride matrix composites are strengthened by incorporating (Ti,W)C into the matrix ceramic. Cellular automata models were used to predict the microstructural effects on the ceramic materials. ZrB2/(Ti,W)C composites were fabricated and then analyzed via X-ray diffraction. The effects of the (Ti,W)C compounds on microstructures of zirconium diboride matrix materials were also determined.

► Simulations using CA models show significant microstructural differences among the composites.
► Addition of (Ti,W)C compounds results in the formation of finer and more homogeneous composite.
► Fracture mode becomes combination failures when the (Ti,W)C reaches 30 vol.%.
► Addition of (Ti,W)C compounds prevents the abnormal growth of ZrB2 grains in the composites.