Synthesis and characterisation of Cu–TiO 2 nanocomposite produced by thermochemical process

Cu–TiO₂ nanocomposite powders were synthesised by thermochemical process. The composite powders (containing 0, 2.5, 5 and 7 wt-% of TiO₂), prepared by spray drying of the (aqueous) solution of copper nitrate and titanium nitrate followed by heat treatment at 900°C for 1 h and reduction in hydrogen atmosphere at 500°C for 1 h. The composite powders were prepared by cold pressing and then sintering at 900°C for 1 h. Studies on their microstructures have been carried out through X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Mechanical properties and electrical conductivity of sintered specimens were measured, and the effect of TiO₂ content on these properties was investigated. The results showed that the nanosized TiO₂ particles (with a diameter of about 10–30 nm) was successfully formed and dispersed within the copper matrix. By introducing TiO₂ particles up to 2.5 weight percept, the electrical conductivity wastage is very high.