Microstructural evolution and characteristics during sintering of submicron Ti(C,N)-based cermet

Ti (C, N)-based cermets were prepared with submicron powders. The microstructure evolution and characteristics during the sintering of cermet were studied by TEM, SEM, EDX and XRD. The forming mechanism of the structures was also studied. There exist inner rim and outer rim between the hard cores and the binder. The inner rim is enriched in Mo and W compared with the outer rim, and is formed during the solid sintering by counter diffusion of TiC, Mo2C and WC. The outer rim is formed during the liquid sintering by Ostwald ripening mechanism.