Abstract:The ZrTiNi system exhibits unique low-temperature melting characteristics and high chemical reactivity potential, offering promising applications in energetic warhead casings. This paper presents a preliminary exploration of the low-temperature liquid phase region of ZrTiNi based on ternary phase diagram calculations. ZrTiNi alloy bulk samples with varying Zr contents (70wt%, 80wt%, and 90wt%) were prepared using a vacuum sintering process, and the materials" microstructure, phase composition, quasi-static mechanical properties, and impact-induced reaction characteristics were studied. According to the phase diagram calculations, the ZrTiNi system has a wide liquid phase region at 900°C, 950°C, and 1000°C, demonstrating significant low-temperature melting characteristics. Relative density and metallographic analysis results show that the Zr70Ti15Ni15 and Zr80Ti10Ni10 alloy samples sintered at 950°C achieved near-full densification, while the Zr90Ti5Ni5 alloy sample had a relative density of only 81.7%, with numerous pore defects remaining in the cross-section. This indicates that as the Zr content increases, the overall melting point of the alloy rises. XRD and SEM analysis results show that the ZrTiNi alloys consist mainly of Zr(Ti) solid solution as the primary phase and Ni-Zr(Ti) intermetallic compounds. Additionally, increasing Zr content promotes the formation of Zr-rich solid solution phases, which inhibits the formation of intermetallic compounds to some extent. Quasi-static compression tests reveal that the densified Zr70Ti15Ni15 and Zr80Ti10Ni10 alloy samples both have compressive strengths exceeding 1200MPa, providing a solid foundation for blast loading resistance and armor-piercing penetration. In ballistic gun tests, the Zr80Ti10Ni10 alloy projectile successfully penetrated the front steel plate at a velocity of 1029m/s and sustained the ignition of jet fuel, demonstrating excellent impact-induced ignition properties.