A multiscale experimental analysis of mechanical properties and deformation behavior of sintered copper–silicon carbide composites enhanced by high-pressure torsion

Abstract

Experiments were conducted to investigate, within the framework of a multiscale approach, the mechanical enhancement, deformation and damage behavior of copper–silicon carbide composites (Cu–SiC) fabricated by spark plasma sintering (SPS) and the combination of SPS with high-pressure torsion (HPT). The mechanical properties of the metal–matrix composites were determined at three different length scales corresponding to the macroscopic, micro- and nanoscale. Small punch testing was employed to evaluate the strength of composites at the macroscopic scale. Detailed analysis of microstructure evolution related to SPS and HPT, sample deformation and failure of fractured specimens was conducted using scanning and transmission electron microscopy. A microstructural study revealed changes in the damage behavior for samples processed by HPT and an explanation for this behavior was provided by mechanical testing performed at the micro- and nanoscale. The strength of copper samples and the metal–ceramic interface was determined by microtensile testing and the hardness of each composite component, corresponding to the metal matrix, metal–ceramic interface, and ceramic reinforcement, was measured using nano-indentation. The results confirm the advantageous effect of large plastic deformation on the mechanical properties of Cu–SiC composites and demonstrate the impact on these separate components on the deformation and damage type.

Microstructural Evolution of Ni-SiC Composites Manufactured by Spark Plasma Sintering

“…In particular, the limitation of the possible grain growth due to the lower sintering temperature, higher heating rate, and shorter sintering time in comparison to other methods makes it more and more popular. [36,41,42] We modified the process conditions to observe the microstructure and phase evolution of the sintered material. It should be emphasized that the relative density of the material is comparable (except for Sample 5, sintered in lower pressure assistance), which was the goal of the experiments, but the structure is significantly different.…”

Small punch testing of Al-TiB2 composites fabricated by spark plasma sintering: A computational and experimental study

“…Sintered copper-silicon carbide composite specimens were tested using the SPT method in. 9 No assessment of the yield and ultimate stress was provided but it was reported that the shape of the SPT force-displacement curve could be used as an indicator for a ductile, brittle or mixed mode of fracture. In 10 SPT was used to estimate the yield and ultimate stress of Al-4 vol%Al 4 C 3 composites following equal channel angular pressing.…”