Fabrication, microstructure and high-temperature strengthening mechanism of multi-scale Ti2AlC/TiAl composite

• Multi-scale Ti2AlC/TiAl composites were successfully fabricated via vacuum arc melting and heat treatment, achieving micro-, submicro-, and nano-scale reinforcements. • Optimal high-temperature tensile properties were achieved with 2 at.% graphite addition, yielding a tensile strength of 561 MPa and elongation of 3.6%. • Micro-Ti2AlC inhibits grain boundary softening and hinders dislocation motion, while submicro-Ti2AlC prevents twin propagation and obstructs dislocation motion. • Nano-Ti2AlC hinders dislocation movement and fine-tunes the lamellar microstructure, contributing to enhanced mechanical performance.