Influence of Deformation Degree on Microstructural Evolution and Tensile Behavior of TiB-Reinforced IMI834 Composites

Modern aero-engines need alloys that sustain both strength and ductility at high temperatures. However, conventional titanium alloys face inherent trade-offs between strength and ductility. In situ TiB-reinforced titanium matrix composites could fill this gap, but their texture evolution and hot-working mechanics are still poorly understood. In this study, TiB-reinforced IMI834 titanium matrix composites were synthesized using in situ technology in a remelting furnace. Meanwhile, the evolution of microstructure and texture in the hot-rolled titanium matrix composites was examined through both Abaqus simulations and experimental observations. Results indicate that dynamic recrystallization occurred in the microstructure of the composites at a deformation level of 95%. Due to the specific orientation relationship between the TiB whiskers and Ti matrix, the hot-rolled composites developed a pronounced [11-20]_Ti // rolling direction fiber texture. TiB whiskers rotated toward the rolling direction, enhancing the intensity of the [11-20]_Ti // rolling direction fiber texture, consistent with the predictions from numerical simulations. Tensile tests revealed that the combined effects of grain refinement and the rotation of TiB whiskers along the rolling direction increased the yield strength of the hot-rolled composite to 1153 MPa, while simultaneously raising the elongation to 10%.