The Wear and Electrical Performance of Cu-CNTs Composites with Network Structure CNTs Fabricated by Multi-Directional Forging

Abstract

Cu-[Formula: see text] CNTs composites ([Formula: see text], 1, 2[Formula: see text]vol.%) were successfully prepared through a combination of pre-treatment, powder metallurgy and multi-directional forging (MDF) processes. It provided a solution for the industrial production of structural composites with reticulated CNTs. The effect of CNTs contents on wear and electrical performance of the composites was investigated. The addition of CNTs results in a significant increase in the wear resistance of the composites. During the wear process, reticulated CNTs will carry the load barrier to high temperature softening and plastic deformation of the Cu-matrix, which protects the matrix eventually. In general, the addition of CNTs will reduce the conductivity of the composites. Under MDF process, the CNTs were organically linked together and formed a network structure as the volume fraction increased from 1% to 2%, resulting in a significant promotion of conductivity by providing paths for electron transfer. The contact resistance increased slightly when 2[Formula: see text]vol.% CNTs were added, with an average value of 5.87[Formula: see text]m[Formula: see text]. The contact resistance volatility of the Cu-2[Formula: see text]vol.% CNTs was the most stable (variance of 1.485). Reticulated CNTs can effectively attenuate the erosive effect of molten pools and welding bridges on the anode material, and are ideal reinforcers for Cu-based electrical contact materials.