Three-dimensional simulation of microstructure evolution for three-phase nano-composite ceramic tool materials

It is believed that adding particles can improve mechanical properties of ceramic tool materials. So far, two-phase composites materials have been widely investigated. However, materials with two-kinds of particles are seldom researched. In this paper, microstructure evolution of two-phase and three-phase nano-ceramic materials are simulated and compared. The effects of particle volume fraction, radius, distributions and grain boundary energy ratios on microstructure evolution are analyzed respectively. It shows that adding two kinds of particles can receive better grain refinement than just adding one kind of particles. The higher volume fraction and smaller-sized nano-particles have stronger pinning force on matrix grain growth. The nano-particles located around grain boundaries have better inhibition effect than those distributed randomly on matrix grain growth. Grain boundary energy ratio has significant influence on pinning effect of particles. The nano-particles not only restrain grain boundary migration, but also prevent the elimination of small grains and refine matrix grains.