The fracture behaviour of Ti–6Al–4V uniaxially reinforced with 35 vol% SiC fibres was studied between 20° and 550° C by three-point bend tests of notched beams.

Back-scattered scanning electron micrograph of the composite cross section (back) and fracture surface (front).

Schematic of the notched three-point bend geometry.

The crack propagation was followed in-situ using a telescope connected to a CCD camera. The fracture behaviour of the composite was simulated with Abaqus using a cohesive crack model.

Sequence of images obtained with a telescope showing crack propagation.

Abaqus results compared to the experimental crack growth results.