Well-dispersion of CNTs and enhanced mechanical properties in CNTs/Cu-Ti composites fabricated by Molecular Level Mixing

Micron-sized CNTs/Cu2O composite powder prepared by Molecular Level Mixing (MLM) was mixed with flaked Cu-1.0 wt% Ti (Cu-1.0 Ti) matrix powders by low-energy ball milling. After reduction and hot pressing, CNTs/Cu-Ti composites were fabricated. Microstructure and mechanical properties of the composites were characterized by SEM, EDS, HRTEM, hardness and tensile tests, etc. The results showed that mechanical properties of the CNTs/Cu-Ti composites were enhanced compared with alloy matrix, which were ascribed to the well-distributed of CNTs and strong bonding interface with the matrix by the formation of a transition layer of TiC. Finally, strengthening mechanisms were discussed.