Influence of Cu content on the microstructure and mechanical property of Ti3SiC2/Cu composites

Ti3SiC2/Cu composites with different Cu content were prepared by spark plasma sintering (SPS) process in vacuum and the effect of Cu content on the microstructure and mechanical property was investigated. The axial displacement, temperature and current of the composites during the sintering process were recorded and discussed. The phase compositions of the original Ti3SiC2 and Cu powder before and after ball-milling, and the as-produced composites were studied by XRD analysis. The surface morphology and fracture surface of the composites were investigated by SEM. The influence of Cu content on the relative density, hardness and compressive strength of the composites was inquired. The results discovered that the phase composition of Ti3SiC2/Cu composites varied with the content of Cu. The phase composition of the Ti3SiC2/5 vol% Cu composite was composed of Ti3SiC2, Ti5Si3 and Cu3Si, while that of Ti3SiC2/10 vol% Cu composite and Ti3SiC2/15 vol% Cu composite contained TiC, besides Ti3SiC2, Ti5Si3 and Cu3Si. Moreover, the relative density of all Ti3SiC2/Cu composites was relatively high (>= 93%). With the increase of Cu content, the axial displacement, hardness and compressive strength of the Ti3SiC2/Cu composites increased. Conclusively, the Ti3SiC2/Cu composite with 15 vol% Cu exhibited better mechanical properties.