Spark plasma sintering of ceramic-reinforced binary/ternary nickel and titanium metal matrix composites: Mechanical properties, microstructure, and densification – A review

Spark Plasma sintering is an excellent technique for developing ceramic-reinforced binary/ternary nickel and titanium metal matrix composites (MMCs). This review analyzes the mechanical properties, microstructure, and densification characteristics of SPS-produced composites. Introducing ceramic reinforcement such as carbides, oxides, nitrides, or borides enhances the mechanical characteristics and functionality of MMCs. The SPS method has advantages such as high heating rates, low processing durations, and relatively low sintering temperatures, all of which assist in reducing reactivity concerns and retaining the desirable properties of the matrix and reinforcing materials. The impact of different process parameters such as temperature, pressure, heating rate, and holding time on the final microstructure and densification of the composites was discussed in this review. Additionally, it examined how different types, contents, and particle sizes of reinforcement affected the mechanical qualities, including hardness, tensile strength, fracture toughness, and wear resistance. Furthermore, the production of secondary phases and the interfacial bonding between the matrix and reinforcements are explored because they significantly affect the mechanical performance and behavior of the composites. This work contributes to an extensive understanding of the SPS procedure for ceramic-reinforced nickel and titanium MMCs, offering insightful information on processing parameters that enhance production and modify the characteristics of these technologically advanced materials for many applications in the aerospace, automotive, and structural industries.