Analysis of Structure Formed in a Titanium Surface Layer Alloyed with Yttrium

Abstract

Modification of a titanium surface layer with yttrium is performed by a combined method providing electroexplosive alloying and subsequent treatment by a high-intensity electron beam. Alloyed layer elemental and phase composition, defect substructure, mechanical and tribological properties are determined. Saturation of a titanium surface layer with atoms of yttrium, oxygen, and carbon is revealed, which leads to the formation of a cermet layer strengthened with titanium and yttrium oxides and carbides and facilitates a multi-fold increase in microhardness and a reduction in modified layer friction coefficient and wear rate.