Physical,mechanical,and ablation properties of Cu–Ti 3 AlC 2 composites with various Ti 3 AlC 2 contents

Abstract

The effects of Ti₃AlC₂ content on the physical, mechanical, and arc ablation resistance properties of a fabricated Cu–Ti₃AlC₂ composite are investigated in detail. Composite samples containing 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, and 35 vol.-% Ti₃AlC₂ are sintered at 800°C without decomposition of Ti₃AlC₂. It is demonstrated that with increasing Ti₃AlC₂ content, the relative density, electrical conductivity, and flexural strength of Cu–Ti₃AlC₂ decrease but the Brinell hardness first increases and then decreases. After eroded by an electric arc, Cu–Ti₃AlC₂ oxidises to CuO, TiO₂, and Al₂O₃. Meanwhile, field emission-SEM observations reveal that the dimensions of protrusions and the percentage of TiO₂ increase with increasing Ti₃AlC₂ content. Remarkably, the electric arc mainly occurs at the Ti₃AlC₂ particles, and the Cu matrix remains well protected.