Dynamic compressive response and microstructure evolution of bioinspired spider web-like composites

A bioinspired web-like (TiB + TiC + Ti₃Si)/TC4 composite architecture was developed through an innovative integration of boron-modified polysilazane-derived ceramic shells and TC4 titanium alloy cores using solution mixing and pressureless sintering. The composite features a biomimetic structure comprising ultralong TiB nanowires (aspect ratios up to 48.5) serving as structural “webs,” synergistically integrated with spherical TiC and rod-shaped Ti₃Si particles as connecting “nodes.” TiB nanowires were synthesized via a solid–liquid–solid (SLS) growth mechanism. The composite demonstrates exceptional dynamic mechanical performance, achieving a compressive flow stress of 2167 MPa with a strain of 10.1% at a strain rate of 3000 s⁻¹. This enhancement arises from synergistic reinforcement mechanisms, including hybrid load transfer, grain refinement, and solid solution strengthening. Notably, the bioinspired hybrid architecture reduces the strain rate sensitivity, improves the strain-hardening capacity, and delays adiabatic shear band (ASB) formation, while enhancing ASB stability under dynamic loading. This precursor-derived approach eliminates the need for conventional boron-containing ceramic powders and offers a new design paradigm for high-performance titanium matrix composites. Graphic abstract: (Figure presented.)