Physical, mechanical, and ablation properties of Cu–Ti3AlC2 composites with various Ti3AlC2 contents

Abstract

ABSTRACTThe effects of Ti3AlC2 content on the physical, mechanical, and arc ablation resistance properties of a fabricated Cu–Ti3AlC2 composite are investigated in detail. Composite samples containing 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, and 35 vol.-% Ti3AlC2 are sintered at 800°C without decomposition of Ti3AlC2. It is demonstrated that with increasing Ti3AlC2 content, the relative density, electrical conductivity, and flexural strength of Cu–Ti3AlC2 decrease but the Brinell hardness first increases and then decreases. After eroded by an electric arc, Cu–Ti3AlC2 oxidises to CuO, TiO2, and Al2O3. Meanwhile, field emission-SEM observations reveal that the dimensions of protrusions and the percentage of TiO2 increase with increasing Ti3AlC2 content. Remarkably, the electric arc mainly occurs at the Ti3AlC2 particles, and the Cu matrix remains well protected.