Preparation and characterization of Al-Mg-Si matrix composites reinforced with Ti2(Al,Si)C solid solution

Abstract

The Ti2(Al,Si)C/Al-Mg-Si composite was fabricated by in-situ solid solution of Si to Ti2AlC during spark plasma sintering. The composition of Al-Mg-Si matrix alloy was effectively regulated by the addition of Si. The elemental distribution and atomic composition in Ti2(Al,Si)C particles and Al-Mg-Si alloy, as well as the microstructure of precipitated Mg2Si phase were carefully investigated. The composite after T6 heat treatment exhibits the ultimate strength of 428 MPa, yield strength of 358 MPa, and fracture strain of 4%. This research provides a novel method to balance the strength and plasticity of Al matrix composites.