Abstract: TiB2P/Al composite was successfully fabricated by squeeze casting technology. Its mechanical and tribological properties were evaluated. The elimination of Ti-Al intermetallic compound was confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies. At 45% volume fraction, the bending strength at ambient temperature was 934 MPa. And the fracture modes included ductile failure of Al matrix and brittle fracture of TiB2 particles. In dry sliding wear mode, severe plastic deformation and adhesive wear were found on the worn surfaces of the SiCP/Al composite. But no obvious characteristics of adhesion or abrasion wear were observed on that of the TiB2P/Al composites. At the steady stage, the friction coefficient of the SiC2P/Al composite was about 0.6. While that of TiB 2P/Al composite was only about 0.16~0.17.

Key words: TiB2, Aluminum matrix composite, Squeeze casting technology, Properties