Preparation and mechanical properties of nano-sized flaky TiCN compounds

Titanium carbonitride (TiCN) show many excellent properties as new multifunctional material. In this article, nano-sized TiCN were prepared by environmentally friendly and low-cost hydrothermal processes. The composition, structure and morphology of TiCN were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray powder diffraction and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Hardness performance was measured by microhardness tester. Fluorescence performance was tested by fluorescence spectrometer under visible light. Based on the results, the samples prepared at 1000–1100 °C had the highest purity and hardness. The flaky TiCN compounds exhibit excellent mechanical properties and show a promising application in ultra-hard materials.