Synthesis and characterization of in situ formed titanium diboride particulate reinforced AA7075 aluminum alloy cast composites

In situ fabrication of aluminum matrix composites (AMCs) has gathered widespread attention of researchers due to inherent advantages over ex situ methods. aluminum alloy AA7075 reinforced with various amounts (0, 3, 6 and 9 wt.%) of TiB₂ particles were prepared by the in situ reaction of inorganic salts such as K₂TIF₆ and KBF₄ to molten aluminum. X-ray diffraction patterns of the prepared AMCs clearly revealed the formation of TiB₂ particles without the presence of any other intermetallic compounds. the microstructures of the AMCs were studied using optical and scanning electron microscopy. the in situ formed TiB₂ particles were characterized with uniform distribution, clear interface, good bonding and various shapes such as cubic, spherical and hexagonal. the formation of TiB₂ particles enhanced the microhardness and ultimate tensile strength (UTS) of the AMCs.