Mechanical and electrical properties of Cu30Cr0.2Zr composites enhanced by CeO2/GO

The interface structure of Cu30Cr0.2Zr electrical contacts was modified using CeO2/GO to improve the mechanical properties and obtain good arc erosion resistance. A small amount of Cr23C6 nanoparticles and Cr3C2 carbide layer were formed in situ at the rGO-CuCrZr interface, and Cu10Zr7 nanoparticles were formed in the CuCrZr matrix, which significantly improved the interfacial adhesion of the composites. CeO2/GO increased the Cu30Cr0.2Zr composites tensile strength from 276 MPa to 406 MPa, and the elongation at failure increased threefold. The strength enhancement was ascribed to the load transfer effect of graphene and the dual effect of interfacial bonding. While the strength was improved, the conductivity increased by more than 30%, which is attributed to the dual action of the high conductivity of rGO (reduced graphene oxide) and ionic CeO2. At the same time, CeO2/GO dispersed the electrode arc, alleviated the concentrated erosion of the arc, weakened the loss of Cu30Cr0.2Zr electrode material, improved the welding resistance, and reduced the energy of arc burning. In addition, it had good thermal conductivity, reduced the formation of erosion pits and thermal cracks, and prolonged the service life of the electrode. This study provides a strategy for developing copper-based electrical contact composites with a good combination of strength, ductility, and electrical conductivity. (c) 2022 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

The interface structure of Cu30Cr0.2Zr electrical contacts was modified using CeO2/GO to improve mechanical properties and arc erosion resistance. The addition of CeO2/GO enhanced the tensile strength, ductility, and electrical conductivity of the composites. It also reduced the concentrated erosion of the arc, improved welding resistance, and prolonged the electrode's service life.