Abstract:
Few-layered graphene reinforced titanium matrix composites (GR/TC4) with 3D network structures were fabricated through a 3D mixing machine and spark plasma sintering (SPS) technique. The effects of different sintering temperatures, holding time, heating rate and uniaxial pressure in the SPS on the in-situ interface reaction of GR with titanium matrix were studied. The phases, microstructure and compressive properties at room temperature of the network structured composites with different GR/TiC ratios were investigated systematically. Experimental results exhibite that the SPS temperature and heating rate are the key factors for determination of reaction ratio of the GR with matrix and the uniaxial pressure affects relative density of the composites. Low temperature, high pressure and fast sintering can inhibit the reaction between the GR and matrix. However, the composites with more residual GR do not show excellent mechanical properties. It is indicated that excellent compressive strength and ductility integrated mechanical properties are achieved with GR reaction ratio of 70%-80% in the 0.25wt% GR/TC4 composites, where the interface bonding is to an optimal state. The 3D network distribution of GR in the titanium alloy matrix can tailor the conflict between strength and ductility of the titanium matrix nanocomposites.