Investigation on the characteristics of micro- and nano-structured W-15wt.%Cu composites prepared by powder metallurgy route

Abstract The properties of W-15 wt.%Cu composites were investigated by preparing two distinct composites of micrometer and nanoscale structures. Micrometer composite was produced by mixing elemental W and Cu powders and nanometer one was synthesized through a mechanochemical reaction between WO3 and CuO powders. Subsequent compaction and sintering process was performed to ensure maximum possible densification at 1000–1200 °C temperatures. Finally, the behavior of produced samples including relative density, hardness, compressive strength, electrical conductivity, coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) and room temperature corrosion resistance were examined. Among the composites, nano-structured sample sintered at 1200 °C exhibited better homogeneity, the highest relative density (94%) and mechanical properties. Furthermore, this composite showed superior electrical conductivity (31.58 IACS) and CTE (9.95384 × 10– 6) in comparison with micrometer type. This appropriate properties may be mainly attributed to liquid phase sintering with particle rearrangement which induced by higher capillary forces of finer structures.