Microstructural Analysis, Tribological, and Corrosion Behavior of Nix-Tiy Alloys Deposited Using µ-Plasma Additive Manufacturing Process

Abstract

This paper presents experimental results on the microstructural characterization, microhardness, and tribological behavior of Ni45Ti55, Ni50Ti50, and Ni55Ti45 alloys deposited using µ-plasma additive manufacturing (MPAM). The study compares these alloys in terms of microhardness, wear, and corrosion behavior. SEM, EDS, and XRD analyses identified the formation of NiTi austenite B2, martensite B19’, Ni3Ti, and NiTi2 intermetallic phases. Ni55Ti45 showed the highest hardness (442 ± 2 HV) and superior wear resistance, with the lowest coefficient of friction (0.21 ± 0.03) and specific wear rate (2.2 × 10−4 mm3/N-m). Corrosion resistance improved with increasing titanium content, with Ni45Ti55 demonstrating the lowest corrosion rate (0.07 mm/year). The formation of intermetallic phases was found to significantly influence the alloys' microhardness, wear, and corrosion behavior, impacting overall performance. © ASM International 2024.