MWCNT reinforced Cu-based nanocomposites fabricated by conventional sintering and SPS: synthesis and characterization

The present study examines the impact of the incorporation of bundled multi layered graphene sheets, i.e., multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) on the microstructure and the physical and mechanical properties of the Cu-based nanocornposites. 1,2,3 and 5 wl.% of MWNCT is incorporated in Cu matrix and fabrication of nanocomposites were carried out through powder technology route. The nanocomposites were fabricated under Ar atmosphere through conventional sintering and spark plasma sintering (SPS) techniques. Conventionally sintered 1 wt.% MWCNT reinforced Cu-based nanocomposite exhibited the highest relative density (~86%). hardness (~551.12 MPa). compressive strength (~459 MPa). and excellent resistance to wear. On the other hand. similarly reinforced SPSed nanocomposite showed the highest relative density (94.25%) and compressive strength (~668 MPa). while the highest hardness (~1178 Mpa) and resistance to wear was exhibited by 2 wt.% MWCNT reinforced Cu-based nanocomposite. A higher concentration of MWCNT was found to deteriorate the physical. mechanical. and wear performance of the Cu-MWCNT nanocomposites irrespective of the sintering technique opted for their fabrication. (author)