Evolution of microstructure and mechanical properties in multi-layer 316L-TiC composite fabricated by selective laser melting additive manufacturing

Abstract

In this study, the microstructure and mechanical properties of a multi-layered 316L-TiC composite material produced by selective laser melting (SLM) additive manufacturing process are investigated. Three different layers, consisting of 316L stainless steel, 316L-5 wt% TiC and 316L-10 wt% TiC, were additively manufactured. The microstructure of these layers was characterized by optical microscopy (OM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). X-ray diffraction (XRD) was used for phase analysis, and the mechanical properties were evaluated by tensile and nanoindentation tests. The microstructural observations show epitaxial grain growth within the composite layers, with the elongated grains growing predominantly in the build direction. XRD analysis confirms the successful incorporation of the TiC particles into the 316L matrix, with no unwanted phases present. Nanoindentation results indicate a significant increase in the hardness and modulus of elasticity of the composite layers compared to pure 316L stainless steel, suggesting improved mechanical properties. Tensile tests show remarkable strength values for the 316L-TiC composite samples, which can be attributed to the embedded TiC particles. These results highlight the potential of SLM in the production of multi-layer metal-ceramic composites for applications that require high strength and ductility of metallic components in addition to the exceptional hardness of the ceramic particles.

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