Microstructure and tribological properties of microwave-sintered Ti0.8Ni-0.3Mo/TiB composites

In this study, the Ti-0.8Ni-0.3Mo/XTiB (X = 5, 10, 15, and 20 wt%) composites were prepared using the microwave-sintering assisted powder metallurgy technique, and tribological properties were investigated. X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), with the microscope capable of energy dispersive spec-troscopy (EDS), were used to characterize the mixed powder. The density and microhardness of the Ti-0.8Ni-0.3Mo/TiB composites were examined. The Ti-0.8Ni-0.3Mo/TiB composites exhibited a hardness of 260 HV, which is a 20% improvement over Ti-0.8Ni-0.3Mo. Tribological properties were studied by conducting experiments using a pin-on-disc wear tester at varying loads, sliding distances, and speeds. The Ti-0.8Ni-0.3Mo/ TiB composites exhibited a reduction in wear loss and coefficient of friction values owing to TiB hardness and good bonding with the matrix. The tribological properties of the Ti-0.8Ni-0.3Mo/TiB composites were enhanced by the addition of TiB particles, which resist wear and friction.