A review on the microstructure and properties of TiC and Ti(C,N) based cermets

Cermets are widely used in various industrial applications due to their high hardness, thermal stability, thermal conductivity, exceptional mechanical properties, and oxidation resistance. However, they often have low toughness and require complex production processes. Over the past few decades, researchers have conducted extensive studies to improve the performance of these materials. This review article provides a summary of the studies that have been conducted to optimize cermets by modifying their chemical compositions and microstructural features. Moreover, critical factors such as the impact of grain size and sintering temperature on the mechanical properties of TiC-based cermets, including toughness, hardness, and wear resistance, have been addressed. The review provides a comprehensive overview of experimental results and insights derived from studies on ceramic-phase rich (≥ 50 vol%) cermets over the past two decades. The focus is on the exploration of composition, fabrication techniques, and properties (mechanical, tribological, and corrosion) of these ceramic-based composites. In order to realize the full potential of cermets, it is essential to address and overcome the various challenges encountered during the production process. This will enable the creation of structurally engineered cermets that are homogeneous, functionally graded, and fine-grained, with full density. These properties make them suitable for a wide range of applications.