Effects of sintering processes on mechanical properties and microstructure of TiB2-TiCÂ +Â 8Â wt% nano-Ni composite ceramic cutting tool material

► TiB2-TiC + 8 wt% nano-Ni ceramic tool material was sintered by six processes. ► The properties of material depended mainly on the holding stages and duration. ► SP1 process was involved with the multiple holding stages and longer duration. ► SP1 process led to many pores, and coarsening and brittle rupture of grains. ► Tool material sintered by SP6 process exhibited the optimum mechanical properties.