Enhanced the strength and ductility of the partially unzipped carbon nanotubes reinforced CuCr matrix composites via optimization of the interface structure

The different unzipping levels of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) reinforced CuCr matrix composites were fabricated by flake powder metallurgy. The strengthening effect of the different unzipping levels of CNTs in the metal matrix was investigated through scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and tensile tests. When the CNTs were unzipped to the proper level, the unzipped-CNTs/CuCr composite presented primarily enhanced an ultimate tensile strength of 373.7 MPa and a fracture elongation of 18.6%, respectively. The formation of sufficient interface contact areas and interfacial adhesion between unzipped CNTs and CuCr matrix, which were responsible for trade-off in the strength-ductility of the composites. This work provides an insight to understand the strengthening behaviors of unzipped CNTs in the metal matrix composites.