Titanium boride (TiB2) is a highly specialized ceramic material known for its outstanding hardness,high-temperature stability,and excellent resistance to corrosion.This compound,typically found as a gray or ash-black powder,possesses a unique hexagonal crystal structure of the AlB2 type,making it one of the most stable and functional compounds of both boron and titanium.The compound’s properties and applications are diverse,ranging from use in cutting tools and molds to protective coatings for high-performance parts in extreme conditions.
Physical and Chemcial Properties of Titanium Boride
| CAS No.:12045-63-5 | EINECS No.:234-961-4 | Molecular Formula:TiB2 | Molecular Weight:69.52 |
| Melting Point:2930℃ | Density:4.50 | Microhardness:34Gpa |
Titanium diboride’s properties make it a key material in various industrial applications.As a member of the boride family,TiB2 demonstrates remarkable hardness,which is comparable to that of diamond and boron carbide,placing it among the hardest materials available.It also has a very high melting point of approximately 2930℃,which ensures its performance under extreme temperatures.
One of the most notable properties of TiB2 is its oxidation resistance,which allows it to withstand high temperatures upt to 1000℃ in air without degrading.This makes it especially valuable for applications in environments where exposure to high heat and oxidizing conditions is common.TiB2 also maintains its stability in hydrochloric acid(HCl) and hydrofluoric acid(HF),which adds to its usefulness in various corrosive environments.
Applications
1.Crucibles and Electrodes for Molten Metal
Titanium diboride is widely used in the production of crucibles and electrodes for molten metal applications.The high corrosion resistance of TiB2 to molten metals makes it ideal for use in electrolytic tanks and metal processing furances.In these environments,materials must withstand harsh conditions,including exposure to molten metals,high temperatures,and chemical corrosion.TiB2‘s stability under such conditions ensures that it performance reliably in industries such as steel, aluminum and precious metal refining.
The excellent thermal stability and resistance to chemical attack make TiB2 an ideal material for the construction of crucibles that are used to melt and handle reactive metals and alloys.The material is also utilized in electrolytic tanks for electrochemical processes,where its conductive and non-corrosive nature is highly beneficial.
2.Conductive Ceramic Materials for Vacuum Coating
Titanium diboride serves as an essential conductive ceramic material in the production of evaporation boats used for vacuum coating purposes.These evaporation boats are key components in the vacuum deposition process,where thin films of materials are deposited onto substrates for various applications,such as electronics,solar panels,and optical coatings.
TiB2 is favored in these applications because of its electrical conductivity combined with its thermal resistance and corrosion resistance.Its high electrical conductivity allows it to effectively carry the current required for evaporation processes,while its resistance to oxidation and degradation ensures it performs well in the vacuum environment where high temperatures and reactive gases are often present.
3.Ceramic Cutting Tools and Molds
Another significant use of TiB2 is in the production of ceramic cutting tools and molds.TiB2,when combined with other materials such as titanium carbide (TiC) or silicon carbide (SiC),forms multi-element composite ceramics that enhance the cutting efficiency and tool longevity.These composite materials are particularly valuable in the production of cutting tools used for machining hard metals and alloys,where traditional tools may wear out quickly.
In addition to cutting tools,TiB2 is used to manufacture molds for casting and extrusion,particularly in industries requiring materials with high resistance to wear and thermal shock.Examples of specific mold applications include extrusion dies,blast nozzles,and sealing elements,all of which benefit from the hardness,wear resistance,and thermal condcutivity of TiB2.
4.Composite Ceramic Materials for Hight-Temperature and Protective Parts
TiB2 can be combined with other ceramic materials such as TiC,TiN,and SiC to create composite ceramics that are particularly useful in high-temperature environments.These composite materials are employed in the production of engine parts,high-temperature crucibles,and other functional parts that require superior thermal stability,high mechnical strength,and wear resistance.
Due to its high hardness and thermal stability,TiB2 is also used as one of the best protection materials for armored components.The hardness of TiB2 enhances the effectiveness of armor plating and ballistic shields,providing additional resistance to impacts,abrasions, and projectiles.
5.Cathode Coatings for Aluminum Electrolysis Cells
TiB2 plays a crucial role as a cathode coating material for aluminum electrolysis cells.In the Hall-Heroult process,which is the primary method for aluminum production,the cathode material must withstand high currents and aggressive electrolytes.TiB2‘s ability to resist corrosion in molten salts and its electrical conductivity make it an ideal choice for improving the efficiency and lifespan of aluminum electrolysis cells.The material helps to enhance current efficiency and reduce energy consumption,making it a valuable material for the aluminum production industry.
6.PTC Ceramic and Soft PCT Materials
TiB2 is also employed in the production of thermal Positive Temperature Coefficient(PTC) ceramics.These materials are used in a variety of applications,such as self-regulating heating elements and overcurrent protection devices.The unique properties of TiB2 allow for PTC ceramics with soft PTC characteristics,making them useful in heating devices and protective systems that require reliable and durable materials.
7.Metal Enhancer for Al,Fe,Cu,and Other Metals
Titanium boride has been found to be an effective metal enhancer for various metals such as aluminum(Al),iron(Fe),and copper(Cu).When used as an aaditive or coating,TiB2 can improve the mechanical properties,wear resistance,and thermal stability of these metals.The addition of TiB2 to alloys improves their strength at high temperatures,making them more suitable for use in aerospace,automotive,and industrial applications where high-performance materials are required.
Titanium diboride(TiB2) is a versatile and high-performance material that is indispensable in a wide range of industrial applications.Its exceptional hardness,high melting point,thermal stability,and corrosion resistance make it a valuable material for use in environments that demand reliability and durability.From cutting tools and molds to protective armor and cathode coatings,TiB2 plays a critical role in advancing modern technologies in aerospace,automotive,electronics,and metallurgy.
By incorporating TiB2 into various systems,industries can achieve enhanced efficiency performance,and longevity,making it an essential material for high-performance applications across the globe.