Preparation and characterisation of electroformed Cu/nano Al 2 O 3 composite

The composite electroforming technology was used to fabricate nanosized alumina particles (nano Al₂O₃) reinforced copper matrix composite. The surface, fracture and wear surface morphology were observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) as well as microstructure observed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Microhardness, tensile properties, wear resistance and electrical resistivity E_r were investigated. The results showed that Cu/nano Al₂O₃ composites with different compositions were obtained successfully by composite electroforming technology. Nano Al₂O₃ particles were dispersed in copper matrix uniformly and tightly. By comparing with the electroformed pure copper, Cu/nano Al₂O₃ composites achieved higher microhardness, better mechanical property and wear resistance, and just a little effect of nano Al₂O₃ on the electrical property of composite was presented.