Characterization of mechanical properties of TaC/Fe composite layer on gray cast iron by using nano-indentation

Abstract A TaC/Fe composite layer was prepared on a gray cast iron surface by using the interfacial reaction technique. The phase composition, microstructure and crystal structure of TaC/Fe composite layer were analyzed with X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The hardness and elastic modulus of TaC/Fe composite layer were examined by nano-indentation testing. The plastic deformation behavior of TaC/Fe composite layer was characterized with the index of creep stress. The results demonstrated that the intrinsic hardness and elastic modulus of TaC/Fe composite layer were 21 GPa and 413 GPa, respectively. During nano-indentation testing, the plastic deformation resistance of TaC/Fe composite layer decreased with the increase in load, while the plastic deformation resistance decreased as the loading rate rose.