Factors affecting the microstructure and mechanical properties of Ti-Al₃Ti core-shell-structured particle-reinforced Al matrix composites

Abstract

This work studied the effects of matrix powder and sintering temperature on the microstructure and mechanical properties of in situ formed Ti–Al₃Ti core–shell-structured particle-reinforced pure Al-based composites. It has been shown that both factors have significant effects on the morphology of the reinforcements and densification behaviour of the composites. Due to the strong interfacial bonding and the limitation of the crack propagation in the intermetallic shell during deformation by soft Al matrix and Ti core, the composite fabricated using fine spherical-shaped Al powder and sintered at 570 °C for 5 h has the optimal combination of the overall mechanical properties. The study provides a direction for the optimum combination of high strength and ductility of the composites by adjusting the fabrication parameters.

Keywords:

• Metal matrix composites
• titanium
• titanium aluminides
• interfaces
• core–shell structure