Microstructure characterisation of in situ TiC particulates reinforced Fe-based composites

Abstract

Iron-based composites were reinforced with TiC particulates by in situ synthesis. The microstructure was characterised by transmission electron microscope. The bright field image, dark field image and diffraction pattern of reinforcing particulates and graphite harmful phase were obtained. Meanwhile, the interface between reinforcing particulates and matrix of TiCp/Fe composite material was also observed by scanning electron microscope and transmission electron microscope. The results showed that the calculated lattice constant of reinforcing TiC particulates was 0·41 nm and the calculated lattice constants of graphite were a = 0·282 nm and c = 0·459 nm. The TiC particulates had quadrilateral morphology, and were chemically wetted in Fe matrix without distinct interface product. There was no transition layer at the interface, avoiding pollution of reinforcing particulates. This study provided some details for understanding the bonding interface of in situ metal matrix composites.

Keywords:

• Fe-based composites
• TiC particulates
• TEM characterisation
• Interface analysis
• Graphite harmful phase