Ultrasonic dispersion of nano TiC powders aided by Tween 80 addition

Nano TiC powders were dispersed in aqueous media. Effects of ultrasonic treatment and Tween 80 addition on dispersion of TiC powders were investigated. The results showed that ultrasonic treatment had a large effect on the dispersion of nano TiC powders, and 30 min of ultrasonic treatment was necessary for fine dispersion from TEM images and particle size measurement. Tween 80 was selected as the dispersant. Sedimentation test indicated that 0.5 vol.% was the optimum addition level of Tween 80 in TiC suspension. FTIR spectrum proved the adsorption of Tween 80 on the surface of nano TiC powders. XPS analysis revealed the existence of TiO₂ on the TiC powder surface, which led to a hydroxylated surface during dispersion. In the presence of Tween 80 in the solution, zeta potential values became more negative. Both electrostatic stabilization and steric stabilization were deduced to be the main mechanisms for well dispersion of the nano TiC powders in aqueous media.