MICROSTRUCTURAL STUDIES OF SINTERED CARBON NANOTUBES REINFORCED COPPER MATRIX COMPOSITE

Abstract

This research is about developing carbon nanotubes reinforced copper matrix composite by using the powder metallurgy process. The test samples were mixed with different 1-2% volume of carbon nanotube and compacted at 80 kN. The green and sintered density of the samples was recorded. The samples sintered at 900°C in Argon gas for different times. Sintered samples were examined for micro structure in optical microscope and scanning electron microscope. The results of the sintered and theoretical densities showed 98% of the theoretical density.

Keywords

• Powder metallurgy
• Microstructure
• Carbon nanotubes
• Copper
• Density
• SEM
• Compaction
• Sintering