Microstructure and Grain Growth of the Matrix of SiC f /Ti-6Al-4V Composites Prepared by the Consolidation of Matrix-Coated Fibers in the α + β Phase Field

Both the microstructural characteristics and the grain growth of the matrix materials in the SiCf/Ti-6Al-4V composites were investigated by means of experimental tests coupled with theoretical assessment. A very fine matrix microstructure was obtained in the SiCf/Ti-6Al-4V composites that were prepared by the consolidation of matrix-coated fiber (MCF) in the α+β phase field. During a fabrication process through the MCF method, the matrix microstructure after consolidation processing will evolve from the columnar crystals to a fully-lamellar microstructure. The experimental results especially the grain sizes of matrix microstructure were reasonably explained based on theoretical calculations.