In-situ formation of copper matrix composites by laser sintering

Cu-based composites reinforced with in-situ TiB2 particles were synthesized through the reaction among Cu, Ti and B4C using a 3-kW CO2 laser. The in-situ reaction resulted in the formation of TiB2 and non-stoichiometric TiC1−x particles in a Cu matrix. Some porosity was observed in the Cu–Ti–B4C system. However, with addition of Ni in the Cu–Ti–B4C system, almost full densed parts could be obtained due to improvement of wetting.