In-situ (Al2O3+Al3Ti)/Al composite fabricated via reaction between aluminum and metatitanic acid

The in-situ reactions between aluminum (Al) and oxides (such as TiO2) to generate Al2O3 are typically expected to prepare Al matrix composites with exceptional mechanical properties. However, the challenges encountered in further refining these oxides have resulted in the coarse size of reinforced particles, thereby restricting the possibility of improving performance. This study was conducted to highlight a novel preparation process for fabricating (Al2O3+Al3Ti)/Al composite using Al and metatitanic acid (TiO(OH)2) as raw materials. The composites fabricated using Al and TiO(OH)2 exhibited a more uniform distribution and smaller size of strengthening particles compared to those prepared via the conventional Al-TiO2 route. The generated Al2O3 and Al3Ti demonstrated remarkable strengthening effects, significantly enhancing the strength at both room temperature and high temperature while maintaining adequate elongation. This study introduces a noteworthy alternative method for the preparation of (Al2O3+Al3Ti)/Al composite, surpassing the traditional Al-TiO2 methods. •The synthesis of (Al2O3+Al3Ti)/Al was achieved by a novel Al-TiO(OH)2 reaction.•The optimization of microstructure results in enhanced mechanical properties.•The strengthening mechanism and fracture behavior are comprehensively investigated.