Fabrication of the Ti/SiC Based Composites by Self-Propagating High Temperature Synthesis

Abstract

Metal matrix composites (MMC) consists of matrix and reinforcement. Aluminium (Al) and titanium (Ti) are mostly used as a matrix, while ceramics like silicon carbide (SiC) play role as a reinforcement where magnesium (Mg) act as wetting agent. Al/Ti alloys often used in the applications of powder-shaped. Nevertheless these materials are very suitable for the processes that are using a simple and novel method called selfpropagating high temperature synthesis (SHS). Based on it, some of the advanced materials such as alloys, advanced ceramics and intermetallic compounds have been focused on SHS process. The SHS compacting process is carried out in stages according of the temperatures helping by compacting force applied. Our research work will be focused on the fabrication composites based Ti/SiC by using SHS process. The microstructure of the Ti/SiC based composites was investigated by using optical microscope. The micro-hardness testing device has been used to determine the mechanical properties of Ti/SiC based composites. The relationships between reaction of the Ti and SiC have been investigated to obtain the value of the composite properties and the bond between Ti and SiC. Ti/SiC based composites were obtained with improved properties.