New ceramic breakthrough: Carbon-TiO2 hybrid boosts toughness without sacrificing hardness.
Carbon layers supported by TiO2 were created by oxidizing Ti3C2 at high temperatures. These layers, with carbon platelets and TiO2 particles, were added to Si3N4 ceramic. This addition improved the ceramic's toughness and resistance to wear without reducing its hardness. The enhancement was due to the connection between the carbon layers and ceramic grains, as well as the support provided by the TiN formed in the material.