Microstructure evolution and densification behavior of TiC/316L composite powders during cold/warm die compaction and solid-state sintering: 3D particulate scale numerical modelling and experimental validation

•3D cold/warm compaction and solid-state sintering of TiC/316L powders were modelled.•Stress/strain variation and deformation behavior of TiC/316L powders were analyzed.•Effects of operating parameters on the compaction and sintering were investigated.•Various macro- and microscopic properties were characterized and compared.•Densification dynamics/mechanisms in compaction/sintering stages were identified.