Abstract: In SiC(f)/Ti-6Al-4V composites, the microstructure of the matrix close to the fiber was different from that of the fiber-less material. Microstructure observations show that a layer of fine grains was located adjacent to the fiber, and more dislocations and faults were found in this region. Higher recrystallization nucleation rate due to the undeformed SiC fiber and thermal residual stress induced during cooling from the fabrication temperature caused the microstructural changes of the matrix. Hardness measurement indicates that the matrix in the fiber neighborhood was strengthened, and the strengthening effect decreased with distance away from the fiber.

Key words: Matrix strengthening, Ti-6Al-4V powder, SiC fiber, Metal-matrix composites