Interface characteristics and wear resistance of Ni-B4C plated ZTA reinforced high chromium cast iron composite

A chemical composite plating of Ni-B4C was used to prepare the surface-modified zirconia toughened alumina (ZTA) ceramic particles. The ceramic preforms were prepared by the plated ZTA and sodium silicate solution binder, followed by casting infiltration to prepare the ZTA particles reinforced high chromium cast iron (HCCI) composites. The result reveals that a distinct interface layer forms at the ZTA/HCCI interface, which consists of phases of ZrB2, FeB, Fe2B, and NaSiO4. The interfacial wettability between ZTA and HCCI is improved by the diffusion and reaction of Ni and B4C. The wear test reveals that the Ni-B4C plated ZTA particles can effectively improve the wear resistance of the ZTA/HCCI composite, and the wear rate of the composite is decreased to 11.6% of HCCI.