Dc. Jia, Influence of SiC particulate size on the microstructural evolution and mechanical properties of Al-6Ti-6Nb matrix composites, MAT SCI E A, 289(1-2), 2000, pp. 83-90
Three kinds of SiC particulates (SiCp), whose diameters range from millimet
er through micrometer to nanometer (designated as m-SiCp, mu-SiCp and n-SiC
p, respectively), were separately incorporated into an Al-6wt.%Ti-6wt.%Nb a
lloy by high energy ball milling. The as-milled composite particles are app
reciably refined particularly when finer SiC particulate was added, and so
do the in situ formed Al3Ti, AlNb2 dispersoids as well as the Nb particles.
The room temperature strength and ductility of the composites, except for
the stiffness, deteriorate unexpectedly. Nonetheless, elevated temperature
strength and thermal stability of the composites are improved and greater s
trength over that of the A1-6Ti-6Nb matrix alloy is exhibited above 240 deg
rees C. The changes of the mechanical properties from room to elevated temp
erature are correlated with the microstructure and fractographs. (C) 2000 P
ublished by Elsevier Science S.A.