2013 Geandier MMC InSitu XRD Microstructure

Composite materials have evolved since the 1970s, exhibiting interesting mechanical properties fueled by the incorporation of micro/nano particles within a metallic matrix. This study aims to analyze and compare the structural evolution of two metal matrix composites (MMCs) using in situ high energy X-ray diffraction (HEXRD), focusing on steel and titanium alloys reinforced with TiC particles. The experiments were conducted at the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF) in Grenoble, utilizing high energy X-ray synchrotron radiation with a beam energy of 87 keV to ensure a representative bulk behavior. The findings indicate that careful selection of particle types in relation to the matrix is crucial in optimizing the MMC properties through thermal treatments. The ability of the high energy beam to reduce surface effects and analyze a large sample volume proved essential for our results. The study's results reveal significant insights into the interactions between the matrix and reinforcement particles during thermal treatment, ultimately informing the design of advanced composite materials with enhanced mechanical properties.