Processing and Properties of ZrB2-Cu Composites Sintered by Hot-pressing Sintering

ZrB2-Cu composite is a new electrical contact materials in the integration of high conductivity, high wear resistance and good mechanical strength. In this paper, ZrB2-Cu composites were prepared by hot-pressing sintering at 800 900 o C under a pressure of 20 MPa. The densification of ZrB2-Cu composites was improved by the addition of nickel using an electroless metal plating technique. X-ray diffraction and scan electron microscopy were used to analyze the phase and microstructure of ZrB2-Cu composites. The results showed that ZrB2-Cu composites with 60 vol % Cu which was sintered at 900 o C had a higher relative density, highest flexural strength of 381 MPa and higher hardness of 2.16 GPa(HV). ZrB2-Cu composites with 50 vol % Cu which was sintered at 900 o C had higher flexural strength of 297 MPa and the highest hardness of 2.66 GPa.