Extensive use of composites has received a lot of attention for application in aircraft engines. EU-funded researchers made an important breakthrough and demonstrated the use of titanium aluminides for low-pressure turbine blades.
Gamma titanium aluminide (γ-TiAl) was found to be suitable for aerospace applications due to its low density and high strength at elevated temperatures. However, its applications were limited due to difficulties in machining that arise from its inherently brittle nature.
Further details: Innovation forges titanium aluminide blades