Nickel matrix composites reinforced with B₄C have been fabricated by microwave sintering at various temperatures. A uniform nickel layer on B₄C powders was deposited prior to sintering using electroless plating technique, allowing close surface contact than can be achieved using conventional methods such as mechanical alloying. The reactivity between B₄C powders to form compounds is controlled through Ni layer existing on the starting powders. A composite consisting of quaternary additions, a ceramic phase, B₄C, within a matrix of Ni B₄C etc., has been prepared at the temperature range 500°C-900°C under Ar shroud. XRD, SEM(Scanning Electron Microscope), compressive testing and hardness measurements were employed to characterize the properties of the specimens. Experimental results carried out for 600°C suggest that the best properties as σ_max and hardness (HV) were obtained at 600°C and the microwave sintering of electroless Ni plated B₄C powders can be used to produce ceramic reinforced Nickel composites.

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1. Microwave sintering of electroless Ni plated SiC and Fe powders