Rheological Behavior of Carbon Nanotubes/Copper Feedstocks for Metal Injection Molding

Metal injection molding (MIM) technology is known for its ability of producing near net shape components. This study presents the results of flow behavior of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) reinforced copper composites mixes. The solid loadings in the copper mixes were investigated in the ranges of 55-61 V% using a binder. Copper mixes and copper/MWCNTs were compounded using a Z-blade mixer for homogenous dispersion of solids in the binder. Results identified a mix containing 59 V% copper suitable for substitution of MWCNTs. The flow properties were measured using a capillary rheometer in the shear rate range expected to occur during metal injection molding. An increasing trend in viscosity of the copper mixes with powder loading was noted. Copper/MWCNTs composite mixes showed viscosity more than 1000 Pa.s perhaps due to addition of MWCNTs and increasing trend in viscosity of copper/MWECNTs was recorded. The results of flow data showed that all copper composite mix containing up to 10 Vol.% MWCNTs were successfully injection molding and test samples were produced.