Impact of TiC particles on microstructure and properties of Al-Cu-Mn alloys by semi-continuous casting

• TiC particles act as heterogeneous nucleation sites, refining α-Al grains in Al-Cu-Mn alloys, with optimal refinement at 1.3wt.% TiC reducing grain size from 139±42 μm to 90±38 μm. • The addition of TiC particles suppresses Cu segregation at grain boundaries, enhancing microstructural homogeneity. • Hardness and wear resistance of the composites improve with TiC addition up to an optimal content, then decline at higher concentrations. • Semi-continuous casting proves effective for fabricating TiC-reinforced aluminum matrix composites with tailored properties for automotive and aerospace applications.