Effect of CNTs on Mechanical Properties of SiCp/Cu Composites

Abstract

SiCp/Cu composites were prepared by vacuum hot-pressing at 770°C for 1.5 h under the pressure of 30MPa. The composites were enhanced by CNTs with different volume fractions from 0 vol. % to 4 vol. %. Three-step approach wrapping process was introduced to prepare composite powders. XRD and SEM techniques were used to characterize the samples. It is found that the core-shell structure composed of SiC core and Cu shell was formed in the composite particles. Optimized volume fraction of CNTs is 1 vol. %. Minimum Porosity and maximum Hardness is about 0.84% and 2.31GPa, respectively. But maximum Flexural strength was measured as 248MPa for samples containing 2 vol. % CNTs. Flexural strength was improved by the bridge effect caused by the increased CNTs.