High Performance Cu Matrix Nanocomposite Fabricated Through Spark Plasma Sintering of Cu and Cu-Coated CNT

Abstract

In this paper, the effects of Cu coating of carbon nanotube (CNTs) as reinforcement on structural, microstructural, physical and mechanical properties of Cu–3 wt%CNT nanocomposite were investigated. CNTs were coated by Cu using the electroless technique for 1 and 2 h. Bulk nanocomposite samples were produced by spark plasma sintering of a mechanically milled powder mixture of Cu and CNT. Kinetic study showed a nucleation and growth mechanism for the Cu coating process. Microstructural characterization showed that the coated CNTs dispersed more homogeneously in the powder mixture. Results also revealed that 1 h coating of CNTs led to the higher relative density and thermal properties. The coating process increased 62 Brinell hardness (BHN) in hardness, 14% IACS in electrical conductivity for Cu–CNT nanocomposite. Transmission electron microscopy analysis showed a strong bonding between CNT and Cu matrix within the distinguishable interface. About 20 MPa increase in shear strength of nanocomposite was observed by 1 h coating of CNTs. Also, the fracture surfaces exhibit changes in the mode of fracture by well-bonded CNTs with the Cu matrix. The coefficient of thermal expansion and thermal distortion parameter revealed 12.7 ppm/k and 0.037 ppm.m/w for the sample including 1 h coated CNT, respectively.