Effects of SiC addition on microstructure and mechanical properties of titanium aluminide alloy produced by selective laser melting

Ti2AlNb-based titanium matrix composites reinforced by silicon carbide particles/fibers have received great attention for light-weight aero-space applications at high service temperatures since titanium orthorhombic alloys demonstrate an attractive combination of mechanical properties, low density, and are suitable for matrix materials. Additive Manufacturing is a promising way of producing SiC/Ti2AlNb composites because it offers a possibility to produce parts with a high degree of design-freedom and good mechanical properties. In this work, Ti2AlNb-based alloy powder was blended with SiC whiskers and used in Selective Laser Melting process to produce bulk samples. Microstructure, phase composition, and microhardness of the obtained alloys were investigated with regards to SiC whiskers volume fraction.