Enhanced softening resistance and mechanical properties of Mo2C particle-reinforced Cu-matrix composites. (1st February 2023)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Zhang, Xiukuang; Lei, Qian; Liu, Bin; Chen, Xi; Li, You; Han, Zhen; Liu, Huan
• Is Part Of: Composite structures. Volume 305(2023)
• Publication Date: 2023-02-01
• Subjects: Cu-Mo2C composite -- Powder metallurgy -- Mechanical properties -- Electrical conductivity -- Softening temperature; Composite construction -- Periodicals; Composites -- Périodiques; 624.18
• DOI: 10.1016/j.compstruct.2022.116503
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0263-8223

Abstract

Highlights: Cu-xMo2 C composites (x = 2, 5, 7 wt%) were fabricated by powder metallurgy. The effect of Mo2 C content on microstructure and properties were investigated. Cu-5Mo2 C composite exhibited the best performances among the three composites. High-temperature softening resistance was enhanced with the increase of Mo2 C content. The softening temperature of the annealed Cu-5Mo2 C composite was 770 °C. Abstract: Mo2 C particles dispersion-strengthened copper matrix composites were fabricated by powder metallurgy and followed by a rolling process. Microstructure, mechanical properties, electrical conductivity, and softening resistance of Cu- x Mo2 C composites ( x = 2, 5, 7 wt%) were studied systematically. Cu-5Mo2 C composite exhibited the best combination of performances among the three composites. The tensile strength, hardness, and electrical conductivity of the as-rolled Cu-5Mo2 C composite reached 405.3 MPa, 130.7 HV, and 88.4 % IACS, respectively. Grain boundary strengthening and dislocation strengthening were the primary strengthening mechanisms. Mo2 C particles presented a stable microstructure and inhibited the grain coarsening of the matrix. The softening temperatures of annealed Cu-2Mo2 C, Cu-5Mo2 C, and Cu-7Mo2 C composites were 680 °C, 770 °C, and 805 °C, respectively. These findings indicate that Mo2 C particles can improve copper alloys' high-temperature softening resistance and mechanical properties.