Electrical conductivity and wear behavior of bi-continuous Cr3C2–Cu composites

Two types of Cr3C2–Cu composites with very different morphologies were fabricated and characterized. Bi-continuous Cr3C2–Cu composites with interpenetrating structures were formed by metal infiltration of porous Cr3C2 networks, while the particle reinforced Cr3C2–Cu metal matrix composite (MMC) were developed using a powder metallurgy process. The micro-structure, electrical conductivity and wear resistance of the composites were investigated, and while both the bi-continuous and particle reinforced Cr3C2–Cu composites exhibited excellent electrical conductivity and wear resistance, the bi-continuous composites generally outperformed MMCs with the same chemical composition.