Interaction of molten aluminum with porous TiB2-based ceramics containing Ti–Fe additives

In this study, the wettability and interaction of porous TiB2-based composites with liquid aluminum has been investigated. TiB2 composites were consolidated with Ti and Fe additives using pressureless sintering. The composites show good wettability with respect to molten aluminum. During liquid infiltration, Ti and Fe additives are dissolved. Intermetallic compounds containing Ti, Fe and Al are formed within the penetration depth. Since these phases have melting points higher than the experiment's temperature (960 °C), isothermal solidification takes place during the penetration of molten aluminum. Liquid aluminum does not seem to attack the solid skeleton of the TiB2 specimens and no signs of swelling or cracking were detected.