Interface Cracking and Fracture in As-Roll-Bonded and Heat-Treated 3-Ply Cu/Al/Cu Hybrid Plate

Abstract

The interface cracking and fracture behaviors of as-roll-bonded and heat-treated 3-ply Cu/Al/Cu clad metal were investigated Interfacial intermetallic layer were observed to be formed at the Cu/Al interface upon annealing at and above 300°C. The presence of Cu9Al4, CuAl, Cu3Al2 and CuAl2 at the Cu/Al interface was confirmed by XRD. The intermetallic reaction layer has a detrimental effect on the bonding strength of the Cu/Al/Cu clad metal, inducing interface cracks. The length of the delaminated region increased with increasing heat treatment temperature. No strain incompatibility and cracks were observed across the interface in the as roll-bonded clad composite and, for annealed clad composites at 300°C, some appreciable strain incompatibiliy developed, starting to form interface microcracks. For annealed clad composites at 450°C, the interface crack opened wide up with strain because the separated Cu and Al plate deform, developing their independent necks and fracture independently.