Structural and Mechanical Behavior of Copper-TiC-Graphite Hybrid Metal Matrix Composites Fabricated by Microwave Sintering Technique

For electrical sliding contact applications, there are important criteria such superior tribological qualities in addition to strong electrical conductivity. This calls for the development of advanced metal matrix composites based on copper. Although adding graphite to a copper matrix results in a self-lubricating feature, the composite's strength declines. Harder ceramic particles like SiC, TiC, and Al2O3 may be used to reinforce the composite to increase its strength. This study looked at the construction of a hybrid composite made of a copper metal matrix reinforced with TiC and graphite particles. The impact of TiC (5, 10, and 15 vol. %) and graphite (5 and 10 vol.%) reinforcements on the structural, physical and mechanical characteristics of copper-TiC-graphite hybrid composites that were microwave-sintered are thoroughly explored. The consistent distribution of reinforcements in the copper matrix is seen in micrographs. In comparison to traditionally sintered composites, microwave-sintered ones showed greater relative density, sintered density, and hardness. (c) 2023 The Electrochemical Society ("ECS"). Published on behalf of ECS by IOP Publishing Limited.