Study On Nano-size Zirconium Oxide Reinforced Copper Matrix Composite Materials

The nano zirconia reinforced Cu-matrix composites were made by powder metallurgy method. The influence of pressure and the content of ZrO₂ on the performance of the composite were studied. The results show that the Cu-ZrO₂ composite has the best synthetic physical property when the content of ZrO₂ reaches 8 percent. Distribution of Nano ZrO₂ in copper is dispersed, which can prevent the movement of dislocation and the slipping of grain boundary so as to enhance the strength and the heat resistance of the composite as well as its hardness under high conductance. By the way, on the foundation of nano zirconia reinforced Cu-matrix composites, A novel self-lubrication copper matrix composite with high mechanical intensity and good performance of wear and friction has been prepared in this paper. We have reviewed the material's component, technology, capability and microcosmic tissue. This kind of self-lubrication copper matrix composites have been fabricated by powder metallurgy route. A pin-on-disk wear testing machine was employed to evaluate it's wear resistance, the worn surfaces were examined by scanning electron microscope, then its wear mechanism was discussed. Orthogonal experiment indicated that the influences of ZrO₂ and MoS2 on tribological properties are more notable than the influence of graphite. The self-lubrication copper matrix composites have the optimal tribological properties when the compositions are: Cu 87%, ZrO₂ 5%, G 5%, MoS2 3%.