Optimization of the microstructure, mechanical properties, and wear resistance of nacre-inspired TiB2/Al-Cu composites via gelatin addition

Nacre-inspired TiB2/Al-Cu composites were prepared by freeze casting and squeeze casting. This study focused on the effect of gelatin content on microstructure, mechanical characteristics, and wear resistance of the composites. The structure formation, as well as the fracture and wear mechanisms of the composites, was analyzed. The results demonstrate that both the compressive and bending strength and the toughness of the TiB2/Al-Cu composites improved with gelatin addition. The composites with 1.0 wt