COMPARISON OF INTERFACES IN TI COMPOSITES REINFORCED WITH UNCOATED AND TIB2 C-COATED SIC FIBERS

Interfaces play an important role in determining the mechanical properties of composite materials. The interfaces established between a titanium-alloy matrix (Ti-6Al-4V) and uncoated and TiB2/C-coated SiC fibres are analysed by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and X-ray techniques. Emphasis is placed upon the interfacial morphology and microstructure, identification of reaction products, and the stability of the coating layer. Complex multi-reaction layers are observed frequently in the interfacial zones. Previous, often contradictory, reports about the interlayers are reviewed. Experimental observation demonstrates that the type and distribution of interlayers vary in a given system, due to prolonged treatment of the samples at temperature. The formation and distribution of the interlayers are discussed further, with respect to these and previous findings. Methods of reducing interfacial reactivity are discussed.