Influence of Mo on the microstructure and mechanical properties of TiC-based cermets

The microstructures and mechanics properties of TiC-based cermets composed of TiC, WC, Ni, Co, Mo, and Cr₃C₂ were investigated. The results show that Mo has a great effect on the sintering densification, microstructures, and mechanical properties. The microstructures and distribution of Mo and Ti in the TiC-based cermets were analyzed. It was indicated that a new phase with Ti, Mo, W, and C was formed on the rim of (Ti,W)C grains by means of an addition of Mo into the TiC-based cermets. The new phase with a surrounding structure was of great aid to improve the wettability of the liquid phase on the solid phase surface of TiC, decrease the porosity and refine the grains of the hard phase, which gave rise to the increase in strength and hardness. The properties of the TiC-based cermets could be further improved to some extent by adding WC, Cr₂C₃, and Co.