Rapid Consolidation of TiB₂ via Plasma Pressure Compaction

This paper reports on the microstructure and mechanical properties of titanium diboride (TiB₂) consolidated by plasma pressure compaction (P²C)^*. Titanium diboride powder with 2.5 wt% of silicon nitride (Si₃N₄) used as a sintering aid was rapidly consolidated via P²C at 1500°C. This rapid consolidation process inhibits grain growth and ensures high strength and ductility of the consolidated material. Microstructure of the consolidated material was characterized via optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and wavelength dispersive spectroscopy. The consolidated specimens showed 93.5% densification with no apparent porosity. The morphology of the consolidated sample as studied by chemical composition analysis was found to be similar to that of the powder. The flexure strength, fracture toughness, Young’s modulus and Vicker hardness of the consolidated specimens were measured at room temperature. The mechanical properties were found to be equivalent if not superior to the typical mechanical properties reported in the literature.