In-situ ultrafine three-dimensional quasi-continuous network microstructural TiB reinforced titanium matrix composites fabrication using laser engineered net shaping

In this study, we created an innovative ultrafine three-dimensional quasi-continuous network (3DQCN) microstructure by in-situ laser engineered net shaping (LENS) of TiB reinforced titanium matrix composites (TiB-TMCs). As a rapid solidification process, the LENS process enabled high degree of Ti grain refinement. The in-situ processed eutectic TiB aggregated at these Ti grain boundaries, forming the ultrafine 3DQCN microstructure. The microstructural characterizations of the ultrafine 3DQCN microstructure were investigated. Effects of the TiB reinforcement and the ultrafine 3DQCN microstructure on the mechanical performance of the fabricated parts were studied. The results demonstrated that the TiB-TMCs with the ultrafine 3DQCN microstructure exhibited superior mechanical properties.