LAUSR

Abstract Ti-ZrO2 joints with a graphene sponge interlayer were prepared and the interface bonding was characterized by three-point flexural strength. Compared with direct Ti-ZrO2 jointing showing a formation of monoclinic TiO2 and ZrTiO4 at interface and a negligible bonding, interfacial strength of Ti/graphene sponge/ZrO2 joints has been significantly increased up to 48.5 ± 7.0 MPa without any new interfacial phase formation. The enhanced interface bonding can be ascribed to the preferred interstitial diffusion of carbon atoms originated from the decomposition of graphene sponge interlayer at high temperature. The carbon diffusion reduces the available interstitials and vacancies for Ti, O and Zr diffusions, which retards the interdiffusion between titanium and zirconia, achieving a preferred diffusion bonding to enhance the strength of Ti-ZrO2 joints.