W–Cu composites with homogenous Cu–network structure prepared by spark plasma sintering using core–shell powders

Abstract W–Cu composites with homogenous Cu–network structure were fabricated by spark plasma sintering using core–shell powders. The core-shell powders were obtained by intermittently electroplating method which can deposit shell composed of nano–copper on the core of micron tungsten particles. These nano–copper shells provide a large amount of grain boundaries, which are benefit for removing pores and improving the densification during sintering. Thus, the W–Cu composites can be obtained at low sintering temperature. The thermal conductivity, hardness and bending strength of the sintered W–Cu composites were investigated. The W–Cu composites show homogeneous microstructure and high thermal conductivity due to the formed fine Cu–network structure, low W–W contiguity and nearly full density.