Effects of solid-liquid doping and spark plasma sintering on the microstructure and mechanical properties of Y2O3-doped copper matrix composites

High-strength and high-conductivity copper alloys have a wide range of applications, such as an important electrical contact material. In this work, Cu-Y2O3 composite material was prepared through solid-liquid doping, calcination reduction, and spark plasma sintering. The effect of different yttrium oxide content (1, 3, and 5 wt%) on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the composite was studied. Results showed that the surface of the calcined and reduced copper powder was uniformly covered with yttrium oxide particles. After spark plasma sintering, the relative density of the blocks almost reached 100%. With the increase in yttrium oxide content, the distribution of yttrium oxide transformed from dispersion to agglomeration, and the grain size gradually decreased. There is a good bond between the copper matrix and yttrium oxide, and the particle size of yttrium oxide particles is approximately 150 nm. In terms of mechanical properties, the Cu-3wt.% Y2O3 sample obtained the best comprehensive mechanical properties with strength of 290.1 MPa, hardness of 125.7 HV, and conductivity maintained at a high level of 95% International Annealed Copper Standard (hereinafter called IACS).

Automated summary

High-strength and high-conductivity copper alloys have a wide range of applications, such as an important electrical contact material. In this study, Cu-Y2O3 composite material was prepared through solid-liquid doping, calcination reduction, and spark plasma sintering. The results showed that increasing yttrium oxide content led to improved hardness and strength of the composite material.