Microstructure, martensitic transformation, mechanical properties and shape memory effect of (TiBw+TiCp)/Ti-V-Al shape memory alloy composites

In the present investigation, the effect of the volume fraction of B4C ceramic particles on the microstructure, martensitic transformation, mechanical properties and strain recovery characteristics of Ti-V-Al shape memory alloy composites was explored. The results revealed that the addition of B4C ceramic particles resulted in the formation of in-situ TiB whiskers and TiC particles as well as grain refinement. Based on the introduction of in situ reinforcement and grain refinement, the martensitic transformation temperature of Ti-V-Al shape memory alloy composites gradually increased, as the B4C ceramic particle content increased from 0.5 vol.% to 10.0 vol.%. In summary, a lightweight Ti-V-Al shape memory alloy composite with high performance, including a higher martensitic transformation temperature, improved thermal cycling stability, higher strength and larger elastic modulus, can be obtained by adjusting the volume fraction of B4C ceramic particles.