Abstract
Effect of Mn content on the microstructure and mechanical properties of TiC/TiB_2 base cermets were investigated by using model cermets with the compositions of TiC/TiB_2-15vol%(Ni + Mn). TiC/TiB_2 ratio is set to molar ratio 57/43 that is quasi-eutectic composition. Mn addition has the possibilities to improve the wettability of the liquid phase. The powder mixtures prepared from TiC, TiB_2, pure Mn, and carbonyl Ni were boll-milled in acetone. After drying, the milled powder were pressed to green compacts and sintered in argon atmosphere for 3.6 ksec. As a result, sintered density and transverse rupture strength (TRS) decreased with increasing Mn content. The decrease of sintered density and TRS was caused by residual pores. Therefore there needs to tailor sintering condition that the elimination of residual pores.
