Dynamic properties of Ti–W alloys fabricated by Spark Plasma Sintering

Titanium alloys reinforced with tungsten have been studied as variants of Titanium Matrix Composites (TMC), which are not only characterized by superior mechanical properties and wear resistance, but also by less impaired ductility as well. In this study, we examine Ti–W alloys fabricated using the Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS) method - a rapid and efficient powder metallurgy method that can better match the demands of industry. Ti–W alloys with different compositions in the 15–45 wt%W range were fabricated using the SPS method. Each alloy was characterized by microstructural analysis and comprehensive mechanical property measurements, encompassing both quasi-static and dynamic loading conditions. The results demonstrated that these SPS-fabricated Ti–W alloys are promising materials, combining high strength with significant ductility and elevated hardness levels, indicating superior wear resistance compared with traditional titanium alloys. In addition, all the alloys demonstrated a remarkable increase in dynamic strength, with at least a 42% boost in ultimate compressive strength under dynamic impact loading conditions while preserving much of their ductility properties. This enhancement in strength is larger by magnitude than the one attributed to commercial Ti–6Al–4V.