Microstructure characterization and mechanical properties of Ti(C, N)-based cermets with AlN addition

Series of Ti(C, N)-based cermets with AlN addition prepared under vacuum sintering were characterized by XRD, SEM, TEM/STEM and EDX. The results revealed that the decomposition of AlN during solid sintering stage had a significant influence on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the cermets. With the increase of AlN addition, the rim thickness of ceramic phase was reduced and then resulted in smaller grains due to higher nitrogen activity. In addition, the binder phase was also strengthened by solid-solution of Al atoms. The hardness increased steadily while the transverse rupture strength (TRS) and abrasive wear resistance firstly increased and then decreased. Ti(C, N)-based cermets added with 1wt.% AlN exhibited superior abrasive wear resistance and excellent mechanical properties with hardness of 90.8HRA and TRS of 2051 MPa.