Observation of particle behavior in copper powder compact during pulsed electric discharge

The behavior of spherical copper powder particles of uniform size (average diameter: 550 mum) in a powder compact was observed under an optical microscope during a single-pulse electric discharge of 500 ms duration. The morphologies of necks formed between powder particles were observed under a scanning electron microscope, and their diameters were measured. The results obtained are summarized as follows: pressure and pulsed current density determine whether or not a spark occurs. Spark is more likely to occur at interparticle contacts under low pressure and high current density. Where a spark occurs, particles are joined together by melting. Regardless of whether or not a spark is observed, necks are formed at points of contact between particles and neck diameter increases with pulsed current density. These results suggest that microscopic sparking, melting, and vaporization occur by means of extremely high temperature attained by local heat generation at the interparticle contacts in the initial stage of compaction. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.