On the densification mechanisms and properties of Cu–Pb and Cu–Pb–TiB2 nanocomposites densified using spark plasma sintering

The present paper is aimed to understand the sub-processes triggered by rapid heating during spark plasma sintering as well as to assess the extent to which densification and properties of metallic materials can be enhanced using such superfast consolidation process. Using nanocrystalline Cu–Pb as a model system, the influence of Pb as well as TiB2 addition on the densification mechanisms and properties are discussed. Importantly, a high hardness of 2 GPa is achieved in Cu-based nanocomposites.