The tribological properties of Cf/Cu/C composites under applied electric current

Carbon fibre (Cf) and copper fibre (Cu) fabric-reinforced carbon matrix composites (Cf/Cu/C) are prepared by sequential chemical vapour infiltration (CVI) in a C3H6+N2 atmosphere and impregnation carbonization (I/C) with furan resin. A novel structure with two-dimensional network copper mesh and three-dimensional network carbon fibre matrix is developed, which is expected to significantly increase its mechanical and electrical properties. The results show that Cf/Cu/C composites have excellent mechanical strength, electrical conductivity and arc resistance. Furthermore, the electric current greatly influences the sliding wear behaviour of Cf/Cu/C composites. The temperature of the contact surface, the fluctuations in the friction coefficient, and the wear rate are very low when the electric current is less than 50 A, but the magnitude of these properties increases when the electric current reaches or exceeds 75 A, especially the arc discharge rate. The main failure mechanism is abrasive wear when the electric current is less than 50 A, which then transitions into adhesive wear at higher electric current conditions, accompanied by slight arc ablation.