Wetting and spreading of Cu(Cr) melt over the Cr2AlC MAX phase

Abstract

• The wetting and spreading of Cu-based melt with chromium on the surface of Cr2AlC MAX phase was studied for the first time; • Good wetting of Cr2AlC by Cu (0.8 at.%Cr) melt at 1150 oC in vacuum was discovered; • Rapid Al redistribution beteween MAX phase and Cu+ 0.8 at.% Cr melt was found upon contact. The wetting and spreading of Cu(0.8 at.% Cr) melt over Cr 2 AlC MAX phase were measured in 10 -3 Pa vacuum at 1150 °C. The measurements were carried out in-situ , by the dispensed drop method from a graphite dispenser. The contact angle established during 1 s was 35° and the alloy is found to be suitable for brazing of Cr 2 AlC MAX-phase. Studies of the chemical and phase compositions near the contact surface showed an intense chemical interaction during the spreading, associated with the dissolution of aluminum in the penetrated copper melt.