Tribological behavior of microwave processed copper-nanographite composites

Excellent properties offered by nanographite particles are exploited as a reinforcement to the copper matrix. The effects of graphite particle size, spatial distribution, normal load and sliding speed on the friction and wear performance of microwave sintered copper metal matrix composites were studied using a pin-on-disc tribometer. Copper-nanographite composites show higher wear resistance and low coefficient of friction compared to copper-graphite composites. High surface area of nanographite particles embedded in copper matrix exhibited high adherent graphite tribo-layer at the contact surface. Formed graphite layer reduces the sub-surface deformation of the composite by way of reduced frictional force. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.