Development and characterization of Cu-Al2O3 metal matrix composites through powder metallurgy techniques

This research focuses on the production and characterization of metal matrix composites (MMCs) consisting of copper-aluminum oxide (Cu-Al2O3), produced by powder metallurgical (PM) methods. Cu-Al2O3 composites were produced by mechanical alloying with 2.5, 5, 7.5, and 10 wt. % for Al2O3, followed by compaction and sintering. Microstructure, mechanical properties, and testing of the tribological behavior were properly investigated. X-ray diffraction analysis showed that phases were formed without intermetallic reactions. Scanning electron microscopy showed that the distribution of Al2O3 particles in the copper was uniform. The mechanical characteristics showed that the addition Al2O3 particles improved the hardness, tensile strength, and wear resistance of the copper. The composite with 7.5 wt. % Al2O3 yielded the best mechanical properties, showing a hardness of 89.2 HV, a tensile strength of 285MPa, as a 0.18 coefficient of friction. Overall, combining mechanical alloying and powder metallurgy produces Cu-Al2O3 composites with superior mechanical and tribological properties suitable for electrical and structural applications.