Simultaneously enhancing the strength and ductility in titanium matrix composites via discontinuous network structure

Abstract In this study, titanium matrix composites reinforced by graphene nanoplates (GNPs) were successfully prepared via an in-situ processing strategy. Both TiC nanoparticles and TiC@GNPs strips are in-situ formed at the grain boundaries, and enhance interfacial bonding strength between GNPs and Ti matrix by acting as rivets in the microstructure. The GNPs can be retained in the center of TiC layer, which provides a shielding protection effect for the GNPs. These in-situ formed TiC nanoparticles are linked together to form a discontinuous and three-dimensional (3D) network structure. Due to the formation of 3D network architecture and improved interfacial bonding, the composites show both high strength and good ductility. The significant strengthening effect reinforced by the GNPs can be attributed to a homogeneous distribution of in-situ formed TiC nanoparticles and TiC@GNPs strips, resulting in TiC interface/particle strengthening and excellent interfacial load transfer capability.