Strengthening Al–Bi–TiC0.7N0.3 nanocomposites by Cu addition and grain refinement

Abstract Thermally stable nanoparticles are used to control Bi phase growth in immiscible Al–Bi alloy during solidification, producing Al-20Bi–TiC 0.7 N 0.3 nanocomposites with homogeneously distributed Bi phases. Cu element and Al–5Ti–1B grain refiner were added to further strengthen the nanocomposite. Significant microhardness enhancement was achieved without deteriorating the distribution of Bi phase.