Titanium Diboride (TiB2)

Chemical formula: TiB2

Melting point: 3230ºC

Density: 4.52 g/cc

Titanium diboride (TiB₂) is a highly relevant ceramic material that has captured the attention of scientists and engineers since the mid-20th century. Its development began with advances in inorganic chemistry and materials science, seeking compounds that would overcome the limitations of traditional metals and ceramics. The first controlled syntheses of TiB₂ date back to the 1950s, a time when the growing demand for heat- and wear-resistant materials drove research into boride compounds. Since then, the study of titanium diboride has intensified thanks to its unique combination of physical and chemical properties, which position it as one of the most promising materials for high-performance applications. With the development of new production techniques, such as advanced sintering and physical vapor deposition, TiB₂ has evolved from an experimental material to a mainstay in industries requiring extreme performance, such as aerospace, automotive, and cutting tools.

Titanium diboride is known for its exceptional hardness, which places it among the toughest materials available, surpassed only by ultra-hard compounds such as diamond and cubic boron nitride. Its highly ordered hexagonal crystal structure gives it a density close to 4.5 g/cm³ and outstanding abrasion resistance. TiB₂ also exhibits remarkable chemical stability, maintaining its integrity even in aggressive environments and at temperatures exceeding 1000°C. In addition to its thermal resistance, the material has high electrical and thermal conductivity, which differentiates it from many other ceramics that are typically insulators. This combination of properties makes it ideal for applications that require not only hardness but also the ability to dissipate heat and withstand extreme mechanical loads. Its relatively low coefficient of friction contributes to its durability, while its corrosion resistance to molten metals expands its potential for use in heavy industries.

Titanium diboride's applications span a wide range of sectors due to its outstanding performance. In the metallurgical industry, TiB₂ is used as a protective coating for components exposed to molten metals, as its chemical resistance minimizes wear and extends the life of equipment such as crucibles and electrodes. Its extreme hardness makes it a key choice for the manufacture of cutting and machining tools, where precision and durability are critical. In the aerospace sector, TiB₂ is used to protect structural components and surfaces exposed to extreme temperatures and friction. Furthermore, its electrical conductivity makes it attractive for the production of cathodes in aluminum electrolysis processes, an industry that demands materials with high stability and low energy consumption. The development of advanced TiB₂ coatings has also opened up opportunities in electronics, surface engineering, and defense systems, where the combination of lightness, strength, and durability is essential. Ongoing research into this compound continues to reveal new ways to optimize its processing and expand its application in emerging technologies, ensuring that titanium diboride remains relevant in the future of materials science.