Fabrication and Mechanical Property of ZrC/Cr2AlC Composites

Abstract

Cr2AlC is a representative material in MAX phase family due to its combination of metallic and ceramic properties such as high electrical conductivity, high thermal conductivity, resistance to corrosion, good oxidation resistance. To further improve performance of Cr2AlC, ZrC as a reinforcement was selected to reinforce Cr2AlC matrix composites by hot pressing technique. Influence of ZrC content on the mechanical property of ZrC/Cr2AlC composites has been investigated. The results showed that 10vol% ZrC/Cr2AlC composite improved flexural strength (715 MPa) and Vickers hardness (7 GPa) by 80% and 106%, respectively, as compared with those of pure Cr2AlC material. Date from this study indicate that Cr2AlC MAX possesses broaden application potential.