EPM method of synthesizing intermetallics based on Ti

Elemental powder metallurgy (EPM) is a powerful means of synthesizing intermetallics of high melting points. In this study, two intermetallic compounds based on Ti were investigated using different consolidation techniques: TiAl–Mn–Mo–C by hot extrusion and Ti5Si3–Nb–C by electro-pressure sintering (EPS). Full density compounds were obtainable in both cases. Aided by interstitial carbon atoms, each intermetallic compound showed attractive mechanical properties such as high tensile yield strength and creep resistance in TiAl–Mn–Mo–C and high fracture toughness and transverse rupture strength in Ti5Si3–Nb–C. The roles of carbon atoms, being less than 1 at.% in each material system, were, refinement of the lamellar microstructure and precipitation hardening in the former, and a possible modification of the crystal structure towards easier slip and less thermal anisotropy in the latter.