The in-situ reaction method for preparing metal matrix composites (MMCs) features the advantages like simple process, good combination of reinforcing phase and matrix, and it is especially suitable for the fabrication of TiCx reinforced copper matrix composites. In this study, the in-situ reaction method with CuxTi melt and dissolvable solid carbon was used to prepare the Cu-based TiCx composites. A uniformly dispersed TiCx particulate phase was obtained in the metal matrix, and they were tightly bonded. For the sample with the TiCx volume fraction of 26.2 vol%, the stoichiometry of the TiCx phase obtained was very close to 1, the flexural strength, the micro hardness and the thermal expansion coefficient reached 600 MPa, 360 HV and 12 x 10(-6) degrees C-1 respectively. The in situ reaction mechanism of carbon source particles in CuxTi alloy melt was analyzed, and the solid-liquid reaction kinetics of fine carbon source particles in CuxTi melt was mathematically modeled. (C) 2019 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.