Fabrication of Graphene Nanoplates Modified with Nickel Nanoparticles for Reinforcing Copper Matrix Composites

In order to improve the interface wettability as well as the interfacial bonding between graphene and copper matrix, in this work, graphene nanoplates modified with nickel nanoparticles (Ni-GNPs) were synthesized using a one-step method based on spray-drying and chemical vapor deposition. Thereafter, 0.33 wt% Ni-GNPs were introduced into copper matrix composite by the molecular-level mixing method, leading to further enhancement of 90% in yield strength. This is attributed to the presence of Ni-GNPs, which provided high resistance to matrix against deformation. In addition, with the modification of nickel at the interface, the wettability and interfacial bonding between graphene nanoplates and copper matrix were improved, which enhanced the load transfer then. Furthermore, the microstructures and strengthening mechanisms were investigated and discussed meanwhile.