In situ fabrication of titanium carbide particulates-reinforced iron matrix composites

► Titanium carbide (TiC) particulates are in situ fabricated in the iron matrix. ► A subsequent heat treatment promotes TiC formation. ► The diffusion reaction region extends with increasing heat treatment time. ► Titanium wires have a stronger carbide forming tendency than iron. ► The diffusion reaction region shows the highest microhardness value.