Interface Microstructure and Tribological Behaviors of Copper Matrix Composites with High Graphite Content Prepared by Short-Process Reduction and Vacuum Hot Pressing

Combining short-process reduction and vacuum hot pressing, copper matrix composites with the graphite volume fraction of 55% and 70% were prepared by cuprous oxide and spherical graphite (Cu 2 O-Gr composites). Transmission electron microscopic (TEM) results show that some graphite particles in Cu 2 O-Gr composites change from spherical to finer flocculent or acicular shape, and the interface between the matrix and graphite is partially coherent. The reaction enhances interface bonding and modifies the interface morphology of graphite, leading to the good mechanical performance of the composites. Compared with the Cu-Gr composites prepared by conventional hot pressing, the Cu 2 O-Gr composites present higher density and strength and lower friction coefficients and wear rates. In the current-carrying friction experiments, the wear rate of the Cu 2 O-55Gr is nearly 25% lower than that of the Cu-55Gr. The short-process reduction contributes to better self-lubricating behaviors of the Cu 2 O-Gr composites, reducing the adhesive wear and abrasion wear.