Synthesis of a Composite Material in Combustion Mode from a Mixture of Ti + 2B and Composite Ni–Al Particles with Different Ratios of Components

Abstract—To obtain a composite with interpenetrating intermetallic/ceramic phases (of type IPC, interpenetrating phase composites) by the self-propagating high-temperature synthesis (SHS) method, the Ni–Al–Ti–2B powder system was used. It consisted of mechanically activated composite particles-granules (Ni + Al) and a mixture of finely dispersed boron and titanium powder. The quantitative ratio between the granules and the Ti + 2B mixture was varied. For all compositions, the synthesis was carried out in the combustion mode without heating. In the combustion wave front, the chemical reactions occurred in the composite granules and in the mixture around the granules, between titanium and boron. As a result of combustion a porous framework of titanium diboride was formed; a melt of nickel aluminides penetrated into the pores of the framework. The metal–ceramic combustion product is characterized by developed porosity and a composite structure with diboride and intermetallic phases located like interpenetrating frameworks. The TiB2–NiAl structure depends on the ratio of components in the mixture. The pores formed in place of the granules, repeating their shape.