Challenges and solutions in the synthesis of nano-TiCN: A review

The development of titanium carbon nitride (TiCN) has significantly increased in recent years because of its unique properties, such as high abrasion resistance and a low friction coefficient. Efforts have been made to find an economical method to modify the morphology through grain growth control during synthesis. In this study, processes including mechanical alloying, carbothermal reduction–nitridation and combustion synthesis are reviewed, and their advantages and disadvantages are compared. This study also highlights the major drawbacks in the synthesis of nano-TiCN and introduces possible suggestions to overcome the problems in this area.