Microstructures and properties of 1.0%Al2O3/Cu composite treated by rolling

The 1.0%Al2O3/Cu (mass fraction) composite was prepared by hot pressing (HP), then treated by rolling to get a full density. The microstructures and the micro area element distribution of the composite were analyzed by SEM. The density, electric conductivity and tensile strength were also investigated. The experimental results show that the alumina particles are more dispersed and become smaller through a single-pass rolling. The pore existing in the composite is eliminated or closed under the rolling force. The relative density increases from 98.4% to 99.2%. The electric conductivity increases from 88.9%IACS to 91.2%IACS. The tensile strength is increased by 47% from 300 MPa to 440 MPa.