Study on configuration design and microstructure optimization of quasi-continuous network structured (Ti3AlC2-Al3Ti)/2024Al

Configuration design and microstructure regulation are paramount strategies to surmount strength and ductility trade-offs in Aluminum Matrix Composites (AMCs). In this study, both methods were harnessed in fabricating, strengthening, and toughening quasi-continuous network structured (Ti3AlC2-Al3Ti)/2024Al composites: configuration design was applied through hot rolling, whereas microstructure regulation was facilitated via heat treatment. Hot rolling modified the network configuration and optimized the strain distribution by improving the matrix connectivity and the directional load-bearing capacity of the network structure. Subsequent heat treatment weakened grain orientation, gave full play to dynamic recrystallization and refined grains, and enhanced the dispersion of precipitates. Superior strength-ductility compatibility of 405 MPa (ultimate tensile strength), 242 MPa (tensile yield strength), and 12 % (elongation) was achieved, positioning it among the most competitive AMCs to date. Finite element analysis was employed for the in-situ monitoring of strain behaviors, elucidating the strengthening and toughening mechanisms. [Display omitted] •Applying configuration design and microstructure regulation to quasi-continuous network structured (Ti3AlC2-Al3Ti)/2024Al.•The bottleneck of strength-ductility synergy was broken.•Elucidating the relationships between local strain distribution, strengthening and toughening mechanisms.•Proposing mathematical proof and detailed adjustment methods on configuration design.•Microstructure regulation strengthened the composites by dynamic recrystallization and precipitation redistribution.