Corrosion behavior of Y2O3 reinforced Ti/TiC/TiB composite in simulated seawater and its dry friction performance

Abstract

The research was based on the designed Ti–Al–Zr–Sn–Mo alloy for the application as structural material in marine area. TiC/TiB/Ti composite was fabricated via in situ synthesized, while Y2O3 nano-particles were added with the aim of refining grains and purifying the interface. The influence of the reinforcements on the corrosion behaviors and wear property were investigated employing electrochemical and dry friction tests. The results showed that the incorporation of the reinforcements introduced additional corrosion cells insides the materials which accelerated the galvanic corrosion, as well as the formation of the passive film. Two stages were presented by Ti composite during the sliding process due to the deterioration in plasticity, while Ti alloy showed relatively stable friction coefficient. The addition of Y2O3 particles improved both the strength and the deformation ability, leading to lower friction coefficient and better wear resistance. A rare earth reinforced TiC/TiB/Ti composite with excellent corrosion and wear resistance is suggested for broader application as marine structural material.

Keywords

• Ti composite
• Rare earth oxide
• In situ synthesis
• Corrosion behavior
• Tribological property