Thermal expansion properties of TiC particle reinforced ZA43 matrix composite

TiC particulate reinforced ZA43 composites were produced successfully by XD and stirring-casting techniques. Their thermal-expansion coefficients (CTEs) were measured in the range of 25-250 degreesC with a dilatometer. Kerner and Turner models were employed to calculate the CTE of TiC/ZA43 in the same temperature range. It was shown that TiC particles could improve the microstructure and thermal expansion property of ZA43 alloy, and the CTE of the composite decreased with increasing particle volume fraction. The calculated CTE values were very close to the experimental values. Thermal stress developed as a result of the CTE mismatch between the reinforcement and the matrix. Interfacial thermal stress of TiC/ZA43 increased rapidly with increasing temperature and a little with the increment of TiC content. When t greater than or equal to 200 degreesC, plastic deformation occurred in the matrix. The effect of the stress state on CTE values depended on temperature range. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd AU rights reserved.