Abstract: TiC-TiB₂/Cu ceramic-matrix composites were produced by self-propagating high-temperature combustion
synthesis combined with pseudo hot isostatic pressing. Microstructure and mechanical properties of the synthesized compacts were investigated.
The results show that the final product consists of TiC, TiB₂ and Cu three phases, which is pure without unreacted B₄C and Ti. The
particle size of TiB₂ and TiC decreases with Cu content increasing due to the reduction of the combustion temperature.

The introduction of Cu into TiB₂-TiC/Cu composites results in a drastic increase in the relative densities, transverse rupture strength and fracture toughness.
The maximum bend strength obtained with the addition of 20wt% Cu is 580MPa, while the maximum fracture toughness obtained with the addition of
40wt% Cu is 8.1MPa·m^1/2.

Key words: combustion synthesis, TiB₂-TiC/Cu composites, mechanical properties