Synthesis of Copper Metal Matrix Hybrid Composites Using Stir Casting Technique and Its Mechanical, Optical and Electrical Behaviours

Abstract

New kind of MMCs have been developed using the economical stir casting technique, where pure copper is taken as matrix and alumina (Al2O3) of grade 6, zirconia (ZrO2), tungsten carbide (WC) and chromium (Cr) are utilized as reinforcements. The developed hybrid composites are characterized through HR-SEM, XRD to identify the phases of the materials. However, EDAX is done to reveal the atomic and weight percentage of reinforced elements present in the composites. Brinell hardness, compressive strength and tensile strength of the Al2O3 based developed hybrid composites show much better results compared to ZrO2 based hybrid composites and its matrix. This is attributed to the particle strengthening and load transfer effect of harder Al2O3. Overall electrical property of the developed hybrid composites decreases on reinforcement, which is measured by a four-probe technique. Optical properties are investigated through FTIR, UV–VIS-NIR and fractured surfaces are analysed by SEM. © 2017, The Indian Institute of Metals - IIM.