Towards sustainable copper matrix composites: Manufacturing routes with structural, mechanical, electrical and corrosion behaviour

Abstract

In the last few decades, man has become more innovative in discovering new materials to make his life more sustainable. Copper metal matrix composite is the most promising material for many engineering applications where the higher temperature resistance and good microstructural stability is required. The sustainable development of copper metal matrix composite is based on the use of ceramics as reinforcements. The choice of reinforcement material is highly influenced by their mechanical properties such as hardness, wear resistance, cost advantage, availability in market and refractory nature. In the current scenario, copper and its alloy are gaining popularity due to their high sustainability, high conductivity and good corrosion resistance. However, the relatively low wear resistance and high temperature strength restrict the use of copper in many applications. Recent developments in metal matrix composites have provided new means to produce high sustainable copper metal matrix composite materials with high wear resistance and high strength materials. It has been found that the wear resistance and strength of materials can be improved by adding hard ceramic particles such as Al2O3, SiC, TiC and ZrO2 into the metal matrix. The aim of the present study is to summarise the research work carried out in the field of sustainable copper metal matrix composites. It also reports the various manufacturing routes along with the structural, mechanical, electrical and corrosion properties. It is found that copper metal matrix composites are preferred over the conventional composites. Sustainability issues around the globe has forced the industries to adopt the eco-friendly materials with their fabrication and machining routes, which results in less carbon emission and also has less affect to the environment. Fabrication of eco-friendly composites is an emerging research area, which has made several research scopes in production of sustainable composites. It is expected that this study can be beneficial for the researcher to decide their research direction in the field of sustainable material production.