Abstract
This paper investigates the effect of Ti(3)AlC(2)-MAX phase addition as a solid lubricant to Al(2)O(3). The composites were prepared using powder metallurgy and consolidated by Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS). The influence of Ti(3)AlC(2) addition on phase composition and mechanical and tribological properties was evaluated. The use of MAX phase allows for the fabrication of sintered materials characterized by high density, a hardness close to 2000 HV5, and a fracture toughness of 5.5 MPa*m(0.5) for the sample containing 10 wt.% Ti(3)AlC(2). Moreover, a significant reduction in wear of the composites was observed for friction tests conducted at 700 °C compared to the unreinforced sample. The research demonstrates that Ti(3)AlC(2) can serve as a solid lubricant and exhibits the best performance at high temperatures.