Microstructure and mechanical properties of multi-carbides/(Al, Si) composites derived from porous B4C preforms by reactive melt infiltration

► Multi-carbide-based composites were fabricated by reactive melt infiltration. ► The fabrication was performed by infiltrating Al-Si alloys into B4C preforms. ► The microstructure and the mechanical properties of the composites were studied. ► The fracture mode of the composites was discussed. ► The work provides a facile method in fabricating multi-carbide-based composites.