In situ formation of three-dimensional TiC reinforcements in Ti-TiC composites

Three-dimensional, single-crystal reinforcements of TiC were producedin situ during manufacture of Ti-TiC composites. The composites, containing 40 to 50 vol pct TiC, were produced using standard casting procedures. The presence of aluminum in Ti-TiC composites showed enhanced strength without loss of ductility at room and elevated temperatures. Aluminum additions were found to solid solution strengthen the Ti matrix and increase the strength of the TiC phase. The morphology of the TiC, which was controlled by processing parameters, influenced the properties of the Ti-TiC composites investigated. Refinement of the secondary dendrite arm spacing of the three-dimensional (3-D) TiC particles was found to dramatically improve the ultimate tensile strength (UTS) and ductility of the Ti-TiC composites.