Synthesis of Titanium Carbonitride Phases by Reactive Milling of the Elemental Mixed Powders

Abstract

Titanium carbonitride (TiC x N 1− x ) powders were obtained by high‐energy ball milling of elemental titanium and carbon (activated carbon or graphite) in a nitrogen atmosphere. The formation of the carbonitride phase was controlled by adequately choosing the experimental conditions of the milling process. The stoichiometry of TiC x N 1− x powders was modified by adjusting the titanium‐to‐carbon molar ratio. The composition and cell parameters of the carbonitride phases were determined. Microstructural characterization of these phases showed a nanocrystalline nature.