Thermodynamics of in situ formation of TiB2 particulates in complex aluminium alloys for aeronautics

Abstract

"Aluminum complex alloy AlCuMgZn, reinforced by in-situ TiB2 particles are fabricated via liquid metallurgy route based on the exothermic reactions between matrix alloy and inorganic salt mixture (K2TiF6 and KBF4), at 750oC, at various time (60, 90 and 120 minutes). The XRD patterns revealed the formation of TiB2. At working temperature by thermodynamic point of view (negative G), some secondary reaction also was possible, and AlB12, MgB2 and MgB12 can to form. The main alloying elements of AlCuMgZn alloy do not influence final reaction products. Increasing the reaction time from 60 to 120 minutes leads to agglomeration of TiB2 particles. Form and dimensions of TiB2 particles obtained after separation from aluminium matrix were determined by Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and through Dynamic Light Scattering (Zetasizer Nano ZS Malvern). "