Investigating the effect of carbon interfacial layer on the elastoplastic response of ceramic particle-reinforced metal matrix composites

Abstract

Titanium-based composites with their desirable and great mechanical properties are in high demand. One of the main problems that arise in this field is the chemical reactions that appear between strengthening the material and the matrix that usually undermines the integrity of the composite. This problem will result in dangerous defects such as debonding or degradation of the properties. In this work, a coating solution is presented; a similar process as discussed in the literature yet analytically different. The coating is commonly used for protecting and preserving the reinforcing material’s surface which is in contact with the matrix. Herein, a titanium metal matrix composite reinforced with carbon-coated SiC particles is discussed. Mori-Tanaka method was utilized to firstly determine the properties of the inclusion which is the carbon-coated SiC particle and then using the results based on the thickness of the coating and volume fraction of inclusions, calculating the overall properties of the composite. An incremental method was employed to then calculate the stress-strain curve of the said material. The results obtained were in good agreement with the experimental data. The negative effect of the carbon coating on the elastic properties of the SiC/titanium composite was observed as the coating layer thickness increased. The same thing was observed in the stress-strain curve in the slope of the elastic zone and work hardening growth in the plastic zone.