CoCrNi–TiC cermet was synthesized by spark plasma sintering, resulting in the formation of secondary chromium-rich (CoCrNi)3C2 phase during consolidation. The cermet was found to exhibit a markedly enhancement in mechanical properties, achieving a Vickers hardness of 16 320 MPa compared to 2025–2332 MPa for CoCrNi, while preserving a fracture toughness of 8.12–10.60 MPa m1/2. This strengthening effect is directly attributed to the reinforcing role of TiC grains within the composite structure.
Bobozhanov et al. (Tue,) studied this question.