ceramicmetal

Ceramicmetal, commonly referred to in engineering as a ceramic–metal composite, denotes a material system in which ceramic and metallic phases are combined to achieve a balance of properties not possible with a single phase. The term is often used interchangeably with cermet in industrial contexts.

In typical ceramicmetal formulations, hard ceramic particles such as titanium carbide (TiC), titanium nitride (TiN), silicon carbide (SiC), or alumina (Al2O3) are dispersed within a metallic binder matrix such as nickel, cobalt, iron, or copper. The microstructure can be particle-reinforced in a metal matrix or a dispersion-strengthened ceramic matrix with metallic phases. Manufacturing usually relies on powder metallurgy, including blending, compaction, and sintering, often with liquid-phase sintering or hot isostatic pressing to achieve high density. Advances in additive manufacturing and coating techniques are expanding processing options for these materials.

The combination of ceramic and metal phases yields high hardness and wear resistance from the ceramic component, while the metallic binder provides toughness and energy absorption, improving resistance to crack initiation and propagation relative to monolithic ceramics. Ceramicmetals also exhibit good high-temperature stability and can be tailored for specific thermal and mechanical properties by adjusting phase choice and microstructure. However, they retain some brittleness and can be costlier to produce than conventional metals.

Applications of ceramicmetal materials include cutting tools and wear parts, such as milling inserts, where durability under abrasive conditions is essential. They are also used in coatings and components for aerospace, mining, and automotive sectors, with performance engineered through careful selection of ceramic and metallic constituents.