Densification, microstructure, and fracture behavior of TiC/Si3N4 composites by spark plasma sintering

TiC/Si3N4 composites were prepared using the β-Si3N4 powder synthesized by self-propagating high-temperature synthesis (SHS) and 35 wt.% TiC by spark plasma sintering. Y2O3 and Al2O3 were added as sintering additives. The almost full sintered density and the highest fracture toughness (8.48 MPa·m½) values of Si3N4-based ceramics could be achieved at 1550°C. No interfacial interactions were noticeable between TiC and Si3N4. The toughening mechanisms in TiC/Si3N4 composites were attributed to crack deflection, microcrack toughening, and crack impedance by the periodic compressive stress in the Si3N4 matrix. However, increasing microcracks easily led to excessive connection of microcracks, which would not be beneficial to the strength.