Microstructure and properties of Cu-Al2O3 composites prepared by powder metallurgy

A review starting from material science trough production technology to testing properties of the Cu-Al2O3 system, based on several years of research and development in materials research, is presented. Microstructural design, microstructure evaluation by different methods, first the importance of correct secondary phase particle spatial distribution evaluation, influence of microstructure on properties, and modifications of production technology, are described. Evaluations are compared to microstructural parameters of a real material: volume fraction, distribution calculations, as well as interparticle distance. Strength and plastic properties at room and higher temperatures are presented and the failure mechanism described. A simplified model of the failure mechanism is proposed. Influence of dispersed Al2O3 particles on recrystallisation is characterised, too.