In situ processing of TiCp-Al composites by reacting graphite with Al-Ti melts

Aluminum has been a key material, particularly in the aerospace and automotive industries, owing to its low density, high specific strength, good corrosion resistance and recyclability. Aluminum based metal matrix composites have also become attractive candidates for various applications where monolithic aluminum alloys cannot meet the strict design requirements. Recently, particulate reinforced aluminum composites have attracted a great deal of attention. Among various techniques which have been employed in the synthesis of these composites, incorporation of the reinforcing phase particles directly into the melt is practical and economic; yet it is not trouble-free. In situ processing of particulate reinforced composites, on the other hand, yields superior microstructures and thus better properties. In the present work, such a method to manufacture TiCp-Al composites and the microstructures obtained thereof will be described. (C) 1999 Kluwer Academic Publishers.