Continuous Titanium Carbide Monofilaments for Reinforcement of Titanium Metal Matrix Composites

The Phase I research will produce and evaluate continuous TiC1-x monofilaments having improved thermochemical and thermomechanical compatibility in high Ti content (beta alloys, orthorhombics, and a-2 titanium aluminide) matrices. Continuous binary carbide monofilament compositions will be prepared by direct chemical vapor deposition onto small diameter resistance-heated core monofilaments or wires or, alternatively, by reactive conversion of small diameter Ti core wires. The product monofilaments will be characterized by optical and electron microscopy with x-ray analysis for microstructure and chemical uniformity and through room temperature mechanical property measurements. Specimen continuous monofilaments will be supplied to MTL for independent evaluation. Prototype composites will be prepared and the thermochemical stability of the binary composition monofilaments determined by microchemical analysis of near-interfacial composition profiles. The project will be performed with the assistance of Pratt & Whitney Aircraft-Florida, who will prepare the prototype composites for joint evaluation.