Processing and Properties of ZrB2-Cu Composites Sintered by Hot-Pressing Sintering

ZrB₂-Cu composite is a new electrical contact materials in the integration of high conductivity, high wear resistance and good mechanical strength. In this paper, ZrB₂-Cu composites were prepared by hot-pressing sintering at 800~900 °C under a pressure of 20 MPa.The densification of ZrB₂-Cu composites was improved by the addition of nickel using an electroless metal plating technique. X-ray diffraction and scan electron microscopy were used to analyze the phase and microstructure of ZrB₂-Cu composites. The results showed that ZrB₂-Cu composites with 60 vol % Cu which was sintered at 900 °C had a higher relative density, highest flexural strength of 381 MPa and higher hardness of 2.16 GPa(HV). ZrB₂-Cu composites with 50 vol % Cu which was sintered at 900 °C had higher flexural strength of 297 MPa and the highest hardness of 2.66 GPa.