In this paper, dense Ti2AlC/TiB2 composites were successfully fabricated by a rapid reactive sintering process by a spark plasma sintering (SPS) technique using Ti, Al, TiC and B4C powders. The microstructure, flexural strength and fracture toughness of the composites were investigated. The experimental results indicate that the Vickers hardness increased with an increase in TiB2 content. The maximum flexural strength (573 MPa) and fracture toughness (6.2 MPa·m1/2) were achieved through the addition of 10 vol%TiB2. The incorporation of a TiB2 phase makes a positive contribution to its electrical conductivity.

Keywords: Spark plasma sintering, Ti2AlC-TiB2, Composite, Properties.