Copper matrix composites reinforced by three-dimensional netlike graphene towards enhanced mechanical property and wear resistance

Abstract

Incorporation of graphene into copper matrix composites is a powerful method to improve the mechanical property and wear resistance of copper. However, it remains as an unsolved challenge for graphene to be dispersed uniformly in the matrix due to its agglomeration tendency. Here, an innovative method is introduced to avoid the agglomeration of graphene in the composites. This method involves the pulse electrodeposition of copper into a 3D laser induced graphene network and the consolidation of matrix by spark plasma sintering. The continuous 3D structure of graphene is barely disrupted in this process, ensuring the uniformity of graphene in the copper matrix. As a result, the mechanical properties and wear resistance of the composites have been significantly improved with no obvious sacrifice of electrical and thermal conductivity. The mechanisms for the improvements are also discussed based on the microstructure analysis.