Development and characterization of copper base composite materials strengthened with TiB2 particles

In this work, mechanical and electrical properties of copper base composites alloys strengthened by dispersed TiB2 particles are characterized. Powders of copper and TiB2 were mechanically ball milled in a planetary mill during 12 and 36 h under a protective atmosphere of argon. Resulting powders were compacted uniaxially at 923 K under 90 MPa during 2 h. Part of these compacts were hot rolled at temperatures ranging between 1073 and 1023 K with 20% reduction. Comparing the properties of materials after this thermomechanical process with that of as-consolidated, it was observed an electrical conductivity increase, and a decrease on hardness and ductility. (Author) 6 refs