New insights into the microstructural evolution and properties of (TiB+TiC)/Ti–6Al–4V composite via laser directed energy deposition using B4C nanoparticles

Abstract

Additive manufacturing(AM) holds enormous application potential in the aerospace industry for fabricating (TiB + TiC)/Ti composite materials (TMC). However, TMCs produced using AM still face challenges related to low ductility. This study reports on the microstructure and mechanical properties of TMCs prepared using B4C nanoparticles through via coincident wire powder laser-directed energy deposition (CWPLDED). The TMC matrix grain size is significantly refined, attributed to the favorable nucleation of the dispersed TiB and TiC during α-Ti solid-state transformation. The maximum ultimate tensile strength of the TMC is 1294.9 ± 7.6 MPa, with an elongation of 4.4 ± 0.26 %, and the dispersed reinforcing phases enhance the strength and ductility of the TMC. This work offers a novel approach for utilizing CWPLDED to fabricate (TiB + TiC)/Ti64 composites with exceptional comprehensive performance.