Development of Titanium Matrix Composites for Aerospace applications

Abstract

Titanium Matrix Composites are very interesting for aerospace applications. These materials typically present higher Young Modulus and resistance than conventional titanium alloys. The ceramic reinforcement can be continuous or discontinuous (fibers or particles). Main advantages of discontinuously reinforced TMCs are the isotropic mechanical properties and the lower production costs. This work presents the development of discontinuously reinforced TMCs with TiC as reinforced particles. The reinforcement was obtained by Combustion Synthesis and the final consolidation by Spark Plasma Sintering. Main advantage of this PM process is the short processing time. Regarding the thermos-mechanical characterization, the material presents higher stiffness and resistance with higher thermal conductivity than conventional Ti-6Al-4V. This work also presents the scale-up of the SPS process to obtain aerospace demonstrators. Machining and joining issues are also considered.