This research explores the strengthening and toughening of intermetallic alloys by introduction of dispersed phases. These materials are technologically important because of their potential as advanced high temperature materials; the key is to improve their low temperature ductility and toughness. This study focusses on transformation toughening in two-phase gamma titanium aluminide with approximately 10 volume percent beta phase. The goal is to determine compositions which provide crack tip toughening due to martensite phase transformation induced by the deformation at the crack front. Experiments are planned involving the measurement of compressive flow stress, indentation hardness, and fracture toughness. Microstructural and fractographic analysis complete the characterization of the specimens.
