In Situ Synthesis Aluminum Borate Whiskers Reinforced TiB2 Matrix Composites for Application in Aluminum Reduction Cells

The TiB₂ matrix ceramics reinforced by aluminum borate whiskers (Al₁₈B₄O₃₃ w) had been prepared by the pressureless sintering method. The mechanical properties and densification behavior of the TiB₂ matrix ceramics were investigated. The results showed that Al₁₈B₄O₃₃ w was in situ synthesized by the reaction of boehmite (AlOOH) and TiB₂ powders during the sintering process. Increasing the sintering temperature had benefited for densification of the TiB₂ matrix ceramics. Al₁₈B₄O₃₃ w could increase the flexural strength and Vicker’s hardness. It is obtained that the maximum value Vicker’s hardness with 1.81 GPa and flexural strength with 82 MPa for samples sintered at 1600°C.