Transformation from Al3BC phase to doped TiB2 or TiC particles in Al-Ti melts

► The reaction of phase Al3BC with Ti was investigated. ► The transformation leads to the formation of C-doped TiB2 and B-doped TiC. ► The doped particles show macroporous and lamellar morphologies. ► A model was proposed to illustrate the transformation mechanism. ► Grain refinement performance of the Al-5Ti-0.8B-0.2C on A356 alloy is excellent.