Microstructure and mechanical properties of TiC0.5 reinforced copper matrix composites

Cu–Al alloy matrix composites containing in-situ TiC0.5 particles were fabricated by sintering of a mixture of Cu and Ti2AlC powders at 1150 °C for 60 min in Ar atmosphere. The micron-sized Ti2AlC particles were decomposed into submicron TiC0.5 grains during the sintering process, meanwhile, Al atoms entered into Cu to form Cu–Al alloy matrix. It was shown that the Cu–Al alloy matrix also consisted of ultrafine grains. Compression tests indicate TiC0.5 particles can improve mechanical properties significantly, and the ductility maintains at a comparatively high level. The fracture strength of 40Ti2AlC/Cu sample reaches 1126 MPa with 12.8% fracture strain. The 20Ti2AlC/Cu and 30Ti2AlC/Cu samples keep undamaged even after the strain of 26.7%.