Compression properties and abrasive wear behavior of high volume fraction TiCx–TiB2/Cu composites fabricated by combustion synthesis and hot press consolidation

The 40–60 vol.% TiCx–TiB2/Cu composites were successfully fabricated by the combustion synthesis and hot press consolidation in a Cu–Ti–B4C system. The final products consist of only Cu, TiCx and TiB2, and the ceramic particles distribute uniformly in the composites. The sizes of the ceramic particles decrease with the increasing Cu content. The yield strength, ultimate compression strength and microhardness increase with the increasing TiCx–TiB2 content. The incorporation of the TiCx–TiB2 particles improves the wear resistance of the composites effectively, and the wear resistance increase with the increase in the TiCx–TiB2 content.

► 40–60 vol.% TiCx–TiB2/Cu were fabricated by the in situ method in a Cu–Ti–B4C system.
► The compression and abrasive wear properties of the composites were studied.
► The addition of TiCx and TiB2 particles significantly improves the wear resistance.