Scientists from the Far Eastern Federal University and Sakhalin State University have found a way to control the properties of a ceramic composite based on chromium carbide and cobalt. The results are published in the International Journal of Hydrogen Energy.
Applying the spark plasma sintering method in the range from 1000 to 1200 degrees, the researchers found that at 1150–1200°C the material becomes super-dense with a hardness of about 1500 Vickers units — almost like armor steel. This version is suitable for protecting housings and parts operating in aggressive environments.
When sintered at about 1000°C, the composite acquires high electrochemical activity due to microporosity and can be used for electrode coatings in fuel cells and electrolyzers.
We have actually obtained a tool that allows us to customize the material for a specific task.
Read more on the topic:
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- An Ultra-Strong Aluminum Composite Material for 3D Printing Created at the Institute of Light Materials and Technologies