Diffusion bonding using superplastic
materials has been studied extensively as such materials
yield a higher bonding process rate compared with non-superplastic
materials [7–10]. This is due to the fact that the surface asperities of
superplastic materials can be plastically deformed easily by the applied
pressure, which in turn, expedites the early stage. The fine
grain microstructures of superplastic materials also accelerate the following
stage. Thus, it is expected that the concept based on the
solid-state diffusion bonding of superplastic materials can also be applied
in the carburizing process under a solid medium, which involves
direct interactions between the powder's surface and the substrate.
In this research, PC is conducted on fine grain DSS in order to enhance
its surface properties and wear behavior. DSS possesses superior
mechanical properties and excellent corrosion resistance, and is
capable of showing superplasticity of up to 2000% elongation [11].