Microstructure and mechanical properties of Mo alloys reinforced with the combination of PSZ and Ti3AlC2

Abstract

The development of novel Mo alloys that combine high strength and toughness has been a critical goal in the research community. A co-reinforced Mo alloy was prepared through powder metallurgy by adding partially stabilized zirconia (PSZ) and MAX phase Ti₃AlC₂ to the Mo matrix. The influence of varying PSZ/Ti₃AlC₂ ratios on the microstructure and mechanical properties of Mo alloys was thoroughly studied. The results indicate that as the PSZ/ Ti₃AlC₂ ratio is increased, the density, elongation, and fracture toughness of sintered molybdenum alloys are enhanced, while their strength and hardness also show varying degrees of improvement. At a PSZ/Ti₃AlC₂ ratio of 7:3, the prepared Mo alloy exhibits optimal comprehensive properties, with a relative density of 96.8%, a hardness of 193.1 Hv, a tensile strength of 537.4 MPa, an elongation of 21.69%, and a fracture toughness of 29.1 MPa·m^1/2. The synergistic effect of PSZ and Ti₃AlC₂ optimizes the alloy's microstructure and enhances its overall performance through multiple mechanisms. PSZ has a more pronounced effect on the ductility, whereas Ti₃AlC₂ plays a more significant role in enhancing the strength. The findings provide a new strategy for the preparation of high-performance molybdenum alloys.