Mechanical Properties of Ti₃AlC₂/Cu Composites Reinforced by MAX Phase Chemical Copper Plating

Among the various reinforcement phases available in Cu-based composites, the unique layered structure and easy diffusion of A-layer atoms make MAX phases more suitable for reinforcing a copper matrix than others. In this study, Cu-coated Ti₃AlC₂ particles (Cu@Ti₃AlC₂) were prepared through electroless plating, and Cu@Ti₃AlC₂/Cu composites were fabricated via vacuum hot-press sintering. The phase composition and microstructure of both Cu@Ti₃AlC₂ powder and composites were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The results demonstrate the creation of successful electroless copper plating to obtain a Cu coating on Ti₃AlC₂ particles. At 850 °C, a small amount of Ti₃AlC₂ particles decompose to form TiCx, while Al atoms from the A layer of MAX phase diffuse into the Cu matrix to form a solid solution with Cu(Al). The test results reveal that the density of the Cu@Ti₃AlC₂/Cu composite reaches 98.5%, with a maximum compressive strength of 705 MPa, which is 8.29% higher than that of the Ti₃AlC₂/Cu composite. Additionally, the compressive strain reaches 37.6%, representing an increase of 12.24% compared to that exhibited by the Ti₃AlC₂/Cu composite.