Strain rate dependency of strength in TiB particle reinforced Ti matrix composite

In this study, TiB particle reinforced Ti matrix composite has been produced using a relatively new powder metallurgy process, the spark plasma sintering and its tensile properties have been investigated over a wide strain rate range. It has been clarified that tensile strength increases moderately with an increase in the strain rate below ε̇≒10³ s^-1, and subsequently increases rapidly above it. This tendency is interpreted in terms of the Eshelby equivalent inclusion method. The analytical results have suggested that the strain rate dependency of strength is simply attributable to that of unreinforced matrix and no extra effects due to the addition of TiB particles are observed. The analysis also reveals that the lower bound estimate of the strength of the TiB particle is several thousand MPa which exceeds that of SiC particle reported in earlier studies. It can be concluded that the TiB particle is excellent in its in-situ strength and interfacial compatibility with the Ti matrix.