In situ synthesis of TiC-Fe composite overlays from low cost TiO 2 precursors using plasma transferred Arc deposition

A direct conversion of TiO2 into TiC during plasma transferred arc deposition is a cheap and novel approach to produce wear resistant coatings. The present study explored the use of a low cost titanium ore as precursor for titanium carbide in metal matrix composite overlays. The deposited layers were characterized using optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, x-ray diffraction and microhardness testing. A carbothermic reduction of the titanium oxides took place during the deposition of the coating by plasma transferred arc. The overlays produced in this way consisted of fine titanium carbides evenly dispersed in an iron matrix. The opportunities and limitations of this approach are discussed.