Microstructure and mechanical properties of Mo2FeB2 ceramic-steels with Nb/V addition

ABSTRACTSeven series of Mo2FeB2 ceramic-steels with Nb/V content between 0 and 6 wt-% had been successfully fabricated by liquid phase reaction sintering. The microstructure was studied by means of field emission scanning electron microscope, energy dispersive spectroscopy and X-ray diffractometry. The hardness (HRA), transverse rupture strength (TRS) and wear resistance were also measured. The results reveal that the grain size decreased with the increase of Nb content, but had little change with the increase of V content. With the increase of Nb/V content, the hardness and TRS both enhance first and then descends. Mo2FeB2 ceramic-steels with 4 wt-% Nb content show the highest hardness and TRS of HRA 90.6 and 1970 MPa and the best dry sliding wear resistance.