TiBw-reinforced Ti composites:: Processing, properties, application prospects, and research needs

Discontinuously reinforced titanium-titanium boride whisker (TiBw) composites are becoming a commercial reality for a number of demanding automotive, aerospace, and other advanced applications. This article presents the general microstructural characteristics and mechanical properties of Ti-TiBw composites of various matrix compositions and TiBw volume fractions based on the authors' research as well as work done elsewhere. The directions for future development in terms of the choice of titanium matrix compositions, microstructure control, and mechanical property optimization, as well as the realistic possibilities of near-term commercial applications in industry are discussed.