Optimization of the Ti–0.2Pd alloy properties through heat treatments

Abstract

In this work the α→β phase transformation, the Ti–0.2Pd alloy undergoes on being subjected to several heat treatments has been studied with the aim of improving its properties in order to be used in industrial and biomedical applications. The β phase, intergranular or with a Widmansttäten type growth, was produced by heat treatment of the alloy in the temperatures range from 750 to 1000 °C. The β phase was transformed into a martensitic phase during quenching. The resultant microstructures have been characterized by means of optic and electron microscopy and X-ray analysis. Through the image analysis, a quantitative study of the grain size changes with temperature has been carried out. The influence of the martensitic phase amount and distribution on the mechanical properties of the alloy has been evaluated, with the object of obtaining the best hardness and tensile strength. The samples that were heat treated in the α+β field show a mechanical properties increase as the amount of martensitic phase rises.