Al2O3 Particle Size Effect on Reinforced Copper Alloys: An Experimental Study

Bonding between dissimilar metallic (copper) and non-metallic particles (Al2O3) was successfully achieved. The mechanical properties of the copper composite nano-structure with different Al2O3 particle sizes ranging from 100 nm to 20 mu m were investigated. The alloys were prepared by using electro-less precipitation and particle metallurgy technique at three different sintered temperatures, 900, 950 and 1000 degrees C. The chemical composition of composites were 85 atomic % Cu and 15 atomic % Al2O3, of which commercially available Al2O3 particles with a purity of 99.5% were used. The microstructure, hardness and compressive stress-strain behaviours were determined. A pin-on-disc system was used to study wear. Electrical resistivity was also measured.