Production and characterization of max-phase materials by powder metallurgy method

Abstract: In this thesis, microstructure and mechanical properties of Ti3SiC2-carbon nanofiber (CNF) materials produced by powder metallurgy were investigated. Ti, SiC, C and CNF powders were used as starting materials to produce this MAX phase composite material. After the formulated powders were milled in a ball mill for 2 hours, the samples were pressed at a pressure of 500 MPa. Then, sintering process was performed at different temperatures such as 1150 °C, 1300 °C and 1450 °C to determine the effect of sintering temperature. To prevent oxidation, sintering was carried out in an argon shielding gas atmosphere. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM-EDS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyzes were used to determine the microstructure and chemical phases. The hardness of the samples was made with the help of Vickers hardness tester. The density of the samples was measured by the Archimedes principle. Three-point bending tests were performed to determine fracture toughness. As the sintering temperature increased, transverse shear strength, hardness and density of samples increased. The fracture surface examination results showed that in all samples a layered structure similar to the typical MAX phase was formed. This layered structure became more pronounced with increasing sintering temperature. Key Words: MAX phase, powder metallurgy, microstructure, mechanical alloying 2020, 48 pages Science Code: 91