In Situ Decomposition of Silicon Nitride Particles in Titanium Composite and its Mechanical Properties
Dependence of the mechanical properties of PM extruded titanium with the silicon nitride (Si3N4) on solid phase decomposition of Si3N4 was investigated. Si3N4 particles within Ti composite powder were decomposed during spark plasma sintering at 1223 K with 30 MPa pressure for 3.6 ks; and then, decomposition by-products of nitrogen and silicon atoms were defused into titanium matrix. The extruded Ti-1.0 mass% Si3N4 composite showed ultimate tensile strength (UTS) of 1139 MPa, and yield stress (0.2%YS) of 1065 MPa. UTS and 0.2%YS of P/M extruded Ti-1.0 mass% Si3N4 composite were 2 and 2.5 times compared to extruded pure Ti powder material, respectively. It was considered that the solid solution strengthening of both nitrogen and silicon originated from Si3N4 caused the high strength of PM extruded Ti-1.0 mass% Si3N4 composite.