Novel Synthesis and Properties of $Si_3N_4$-based Nano/Nano-Type Composites

$Si_3N_4$/TiN nano/nano-type composites were successfully fabricated by the combination of a mechano-chemical grinding (MCG) method and a short time sintering process, and their wear resistance was evaluated. Powder mixtures of $\alpha-Si_3N_4$and Ti were prepared using mechano-chemical grinding process and the resulting nanocomposite powder mixtures were consolidated using pulsed electric current sintering (PECS). TEM observation showed that the nano/nano-type composites consisted of homogeneous and very fine matrix grains with the size less than 100 nm. The obtained $Si_3N_4$-based nano/nano-type showed high wear resistance and electric discharge machinability.