Characterization of Mechanical Properties of Carbon Nanotubes in Copper-Matrix Nanocomposites

Carbon nanotubes have received considerable attention because of their excellent mechanical properties. In this study, carbon nanotube - copper composites have been sintered by a mechanical mixing process. The interfacial bonding between nanotubes and the copper matrix was improved by coating nanotubes with nickel. Sintered pure copper samples were used as control materials. The displacement rate of nanotube-copper composites was found to increase at 200°C whereas that of nickel-coated nanotue-copper composites significantly decreased. The incorporation of carbon nanotubes and nickel-coated carbon nanotubes in the copper matrix decreased friction coefficients and increased the time up to the onset of scuffing compared with those of pure copper specimens.