High-performance copper-based composite material for extreme environments and method for preparing same

Abstract

The application discloses a kind of high-performance copper-based composite material for extreme environment and preparation method thereof, it is related to metal material technical field, the composite material includes: a) copper matrix, the copper matrix includes pure copper or copper alloy, copper alloy further includes copper-nickel, copper-beryllium, copper-zinc, copper-tin alloy;B) reinforcing phase material;C) one or more alloying elements;D) additive, the additive includes yttrium, lanthanum;In the technical scheme provided in the application, by adding appropriate amount of nickel, phosphorus, iron, manganese, cobalt, titanium, beryllium, zirconium and other alloying elements, the strength, toughness and wear resistance of the composite material are improved, so that the material can withstand greater stress without damage in extreme environment. Yttrium, lanthanum and other additives are used to optimize the microstructure of the material, and a dense protective layer is formed on the surface of the material through surface treatment technology, greatly improving the corrosion resistance of the material.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of metal materials technology, and in particular to a high-performance copper-based composite material for use in extreme environments and its preparation method. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, there is an urgent need for high-performance materials capable of operating in extreme environments in fields such as aerospace, automotive manufacturing, and electronic equipment. While traditional copper-based materials possess good electrical and thermal conductivity, their mechanical properties and corrosion resistance often fail to meet requirements under harsh conditions such as high temperature, high pressure, and strong corrosion. Therefore, researchers are continuously exploring novel copper-based composite materials, aiming to improve the overall performance of copper-based materials by introducing reinforcing phase materials and other alloying elements.

[0003] While existing copper-based composite materials can improve material performance to some extent, the uneven distribution of reinforcing phases in the matrix leads to unstable mechanical properties. Inappropriate selection and proportioning of alloying elements fail to fully utilize their functions, leaving the corrosion resistance and mechanical properties of the materials still needing improvement. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art and provide a high-performance copper-based composite material for extreme environments and its preparation method, so as to solve the problems in the background art.

[0005] In view of this, the present invention provides a high-performance copper-based composite material for extreme environments and a method for preparing the same, the composite material comprising:

[0006] a) A copper matrix, wherein the copper matrix comprises pure copper or a copper alloy, and the copper alloy further comprises copper-nickel, copper-beryllium, copper-zinc, or copper-tin alloys;

[0007] b) A reinforcing phase material, wherein the reinforcing phase material is selected from carbon nanotubes, alumina particles, silicon nitride particles, silicon carbide particles, barium titanate particles, and intermetallic compounds;

[0008] c) One or more alloying elements for improving the mechanical properties and corrosion resistance of the composite material, wherein the alloying elements include nickel, phosphorus, iron, manganese, cobalt, titanium, beryllium, and zirconium, wherein preferably 1 wt% to 5 wt%;

[0009] d) Additives, including yttrium and lanthanum, to optimize the microstructure and improve overall performance;

[0010] The volume fraction of the reinforcing phase material is 1% to 30%, preferably 5% to 20%, and the composite material exhibits significant performance improvements in the following aspects.

[0011] Optionally, the alloying element is at least one of nickel, phosphorus, iron, manganese, cobalt, titanium, beryllium, and zirconium, and the amount of the alloying element added accounts for 0.1 wt% to 10 wt% of the total weight of the composite material.

[0012] Optionally, the volume fraction of the reinforcing phase material is 1% to 30%, preferably 5% to 20%.

[0013] Optionally, the copper alloy is a high-purity alloy with a copper content of 90 wt% or more.

[0014] Optionally, the reinforcing phase material is reinforcing particles with a particle size of less than 1 μm or reinforcing fibers with a length of less than 10 μm.

[0015] This invention also protects a method for preparing high-performance copper-based composite materials for extreme environments, comprising the following steps:

[0016] a) Mix the copper matrix with the alloying elements evenly;

[0017] b) Melt the mixture at a predetermined temperature;

[0018] c) Add the reinforcing phase material to the molten mixture and stir until homogeneous;

[0019] d) Cool to room temperature under a protective atmosphere.

[0020] Optionally, the predetermined temperature is between 1000°C and 1200°C, preferably between 1050°C and 1150°C.

[0021] Optionally, the heat treatment includes solution treatment and aging treatment, wherein the solution treatment temperature is 800°C to 1000°C and the aging treatment temperature is 300°C to 500°C.

[0022] Optionally, after step d), a surface treatment process is further included to improve the corrosion resistance of the composite material. The surface treatment process includes, but is not limited to, oxidation treatment, chemical coating, or physical vapor deposition.

[0023] Optionally, the method may also include step e) heat-treating the cooled material to further improve its properties.

[0024] As can be seen from the above technical solutions, the embodiments of the present invention have the following advantages:

[0025] This invention discloses a high-performance copper-based composite material for extreme environments and its preparation method. By adding appropriate amounts of alloying elements such as nickel, phosphorus, iron, manganese, cobalt, titanium, beryllium, and zirconium, the strength, toughness, and wear resistance of the composite material are improved, enabling it to withstand greater stress in extreme environments without failure. Additives such as yttrium and lanthanum optimize the microstructure of the material, and surface treatment techniques (such as oxidation, chemical coating, or physical vapor deposition) form a dense protective layer on the material surface, significantly improving its corrosion resistance.

[0026] At the same time, even with the addition of reinforcing phase materials (such as carbon nanotubes, alumina particles, silicon nitride particles, etc.), the material still maintains excellent electrical and thermal conductivity, making it suitable for various electrical and thermal management applications.

[0027] These features and advantages of the present invention will be disclosed in detail in the following specific embodiments and accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0028] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings without creative effort.

[0029] Figure 1 This is a flowchart of the method of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0030] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of the present invention, and not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0031] It should be noted that if the embodiments of the present invention involve directional indications (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, etc.), the directional indications are only used to explain the relative positional relationship and movement of the components in a specific posture. If the specific posture changes, the directional indications will also change accordingly.

[0032] Furthermore, if the embodiments of this invention involve descriptions such as "first" or "second," these descriptions are for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of those features. Additionally, the use of "and / or" or "and / or" throughout the text includes three parallel solutions. For example, "A and / or B" includes solution A, solution B, or a solution where both A and B are satisfied simultaneously. Furthermore, the technical solutions of the various embodiments can be combined with each other, but this must be based on the ability of those skilled in the art to implement them. When the combination of technical solutions is contradictory or impossible to implement, it should be considered that such a combination of technical solutions does not exist and is not within the scope of protection claimed by this invention.

[0033] The following describes in detail, with reference to the accompanying drawings, a high-performance copper-based composite material for extreme environments and its preparation method, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Example 1

[0035] For easier understanding, please refer to Figure 1 This invention provides an embodiment of a high-performance copper-based composite material for extreme environments and its preparation method, wherein the composite material comprises:

[0036] a) A copper matrix, wherein the copper matrix comprises pure copper or a copper alloy, and the copper alloy further comprises copper-nickel, copper-beryllium, copper-zinc, or copper-tin alloys;

[0037] b) A reinforcing phase material, wherein the reinforcing phase material is selected from carbon nanotubes, alumina particles, silicon nitride particles, silicon carbide particles, barium titanate particles, and intermetallic compounds;

[0038] c) One or more alloying elements for improving the mechanical properties and corrosion resistance of the composite material, wherein the alloying elements include nickel, phosphorus, iron, manganese, cobalt, titanium, beryllium, and zirconium, wherein preferably 1 wt% to 5 wt%;

[0039] d) Additives, including yttrium and lanthanum, to optimize the microstructure and improve overall performance;

[0040] The volume fraction of the reinforcing phase material is 1% to 30%, preferably 5% to 20%, and the composite material exhibits significant performance improvements in the following aspects.

[0041] The alloying element is at least one of nickel, phosphorus, iron, manganese, cobalt, titanium, beryllium, and zirconium, and the amount of the alloying element added accounts for 0.1 wt% to 10 wt% of the total weight of the composite material.

[0042] The volume fraction of the reinforcing phase material is 1% to 30%, preferably 5% to 20%.

[0043] The copper alloy is a high-purity alloy with a copper content of 90 wt% or more.

[0044] The reinforcing phase material is a reinforcing particle with a particle size of less than 1 μm or a reinforcing fiber with a length of less than 10 μm.

[0045] A method for preparing high-performance copper-based composite materials for extreme environments includes the following steps:

[0046] a) Mix the copper matrix with the alloying elements evenly;

[0047] b) Melt the mixture at a predetermined temperature;

[0048] c) Add the reinforcing phase material to the molten mixture and stir until homogeneous;

[0049] d) Cool to room temperature under a protective atmosphere.

[0050] The predetermined temperature is between 1000°C and 1200°C, preferably between 1050°C and 1150°C.

[0051] The heat treatment includes solution treatment and aging treatment, wherein the solution treatment temperature is 800℃ to 1000℃ and the aging treatment temperature is 300℃ to 500℃.

[0052] The process following step d) includes a surface treatment process to improve the corrosion resistance of the composite material. The surface treatment process includes, but is not limited to, oxidation treatment, chemical coating, or physical vapor deposition.

[0053] It also includes step e) heat-treating the cooled material to further improve its performance.

[0054] It should be noted that high-purity copper (Cu content greater than 90 wt%) was selected as the matrix material, and a copper-nickel (Cu-Ni) alloy was chosen as the basis for this embodiment, with nickel (Ni) as the main alloying element, and its addition amount controlled between 1 wt% and 5 wt%. The reinforcing phase material was selected as alumina (Al2O3) particles with a particle size of less than 1 μm, with a volume fraction of 5% to 20%. In addition, an appropriate amount of yttrium (Y) was added as an additive to optimize the microstructure.

[0055] First, the copper matrix and nickel alloy elements are mixed evenly according to a predetermined ratio to ensure that each part of the material is in full contact.

[0056] The mixed powder is placed in a high-temperature furnace and heated to between 1050°C and 1150°C under inert gas protection to completely melt the material.

[0057] After the copper matrix is ​​completely melted, pre-prepared alumina particles are slowly added, and mechanical stirring is used to ensure that the reinforcing phase is uniformly distributed throughout the melt. Under a protective atmosphere, the melt is slowly cooled to room temperature to form a dense copper-based composite material.

[0058] The cooled material undergoes solution treatment (800℃ to 1000℃) and aging treatment (300℃ to 500℃) to further enhance its mechanical properties. Finally, surface treatments such as oxidation, chemical coating, or physical vapor deposition are applied to enhance its corrosion resistance.

[0059] Example 2

[0060] High-purity copper (Cu content greater than 90 wt%) was selected as the matrix material, and a copper-nickel (Cu-Ni) alloy was chosen as the basis for this embodiment. Beryllium (Be) was used as the main alloying element, with its addition amount controlled between 1 wt% and 5 wt%. The reinforcing phase material consisted of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) with a particle size of less than 1 μm, with a volume fraction of 5% to 20%. In addition, an appropriate amount of yttrium (Y) was added as an additive to optimize the microstructure.

[0061] First, the copper matrix and nickel alloy elements are mixed evenly according to a predetermined ratio to ensure that each part of the material is in full contact.

[0062] The mixed powder is placed in a high-temperature furnace and heated to between 1050°C and 1150°C under inert gas protection to completely melt the material.

[0063] After the copper matrix is ​​completely melted, pre-prepared alumina particles are slowly added, and mechanical stirring is used to ensure that the reinforcing phase is uniformly distributed throughout the melt. Under a protective atmosphere, the melt is slowly cooled to room temperature to form a dense copper-based composite material.

[0064] The cooled material undergoes solution treatment (800℃ to 1000℃) and aging treatment (300℃ to 500℃) to further enhance its mechanical properties. Finally, surface treatments such as oxidation, chemical coating, or physical vapor deposition are applied to improve its corrosion resistance.

[0065] One important point to note during the preparation process is that, due to the toxicity of beryllium, appropriate protective measures must be taken.

[0066] Example 3

[0067] High-purity copper (Cu content greater than 90 wt%) was selected as the matrix material, and a copper-nickel (Cu-Ni) alloy was chosen as the basis for this embodiment. Zinc (Zn) was used as the main alloying element, with its addition amount controlled between 1 wt% and 5 wt%. Silicon nitride (Si3N4) particles with a particle size of less than 1 μm were selected as the reinforcing phase material, with a volume fraction of 5% to 20%. In addition, an appropriate amount of yttrium (Y) was added as an additive to optimize the microstructure.

[0068] First, the copper matrix and nickel alloy elements are mixed evenly according to a predetermined ratio to ensure that each part of the material is in full contact.

[0069] The mixed powder is placed in a high-temperature furnace and heated to between 1050°C and 1150°C under inert gas protection to completely melt the material.

[0070] After the copper matrix is ​​completely melted, pre-prepared alumina particles are slowly added, and mechanical stirring is used to ensure that the reinforcing phase is uniformly distributed throughout the melt. Under a protective atmosphere, the melt is slowly cooled to room temperature to form a dense copper-based composite material.

[0071] The cooled material undergoes solution treatment (800℃ to 1000℃) and aging treatment (300℃ to 500℃) to further enhance its mechanical properties. Finally, surface treatments such as oxidation, chemical coating, or physical vapor deposition are applied to enhance its corrosion resistance.

[0072] The corresponding effects of the examples are as follows:

[0073] Effects of Example 1: Due to the addition of nickel (Ni) as an alloying element, the composite material exhibits higher strength and toughness. The addition of nickel increases the tensile strength of the material while maintaining good ductility, thus improving mechanical properties. The addition of yttrium (Y) optimizes the microstructure, resulting in excellent performance in corrosive environments such as seawater and salt spray. Furthermore, after surface treatment, a dense protective film forms on the material surface, further enhancing corrosion resistance. Despite the addition of reinforcing phase material (alumina particles), the material maintains high electrical and thermal conductivity due to its properly controlled volume fraction, making it suitable for electrical connections and heat dissipation components in extreme environments.

[0074] Effects of Example 2: Beryllium (Be) is a lightweight alloying element. The addition of beryllium (Be) not only reduces the weight of the material but also enhances its hardness and wear resistance. Simultaneously, the introduction of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) allows the composite material to maintain good dimensional stability and mechanical strength even at high temperatures.

[0075] The effects of Example 3: The addition of zinc (Zn) reduced the overall cost of the material without sacrificing its basic properties. Furthermore, silicon nitride (Si3N4) particles, acting as a reinforcing phase, endowed the composite material with excellent wear resistance and impact resistance, making it suitable for critical components of high-speed operating equipment.

[0076] Working principle: Select a suitable copper matrix material based on the required performance, such as pure copper or copper alloys (e.g., copper-nickel, copper-beryllium, copper-zinc, copper-tin, etc.). Select appropriate alloying elements (e.g., nickel, phosphorus, iron, manganese, cobalt, titanium, beryllium, zirconium), as well as reinforcing phase materials (e.g., carbon nanotubes, alumina particles, silicon nitride particles, silicon carbide particles, barium titanate particles, intermetallic compounds) and additives (e.g., yttrium, lanthanum). Ensure all equipment used in the preparation process (e.g., high-temperature furnace, stirrer, vacuum pump, etc.) is in good working order and prepare necessary protective equipment.

[0077] Preparation Process: Weigh a certain amount of copper matrix material and alloy element powder, accurately according to the designed weight percentage (wt%). Use a ball mill or other mixing device to uniformly mix the copper matrix and alloy elements, ensuring that the alloy elements are evenly distributed within the copper matrix. Place the mixed copper matrix and alloy element powder into a crucible and put it into a high-temperature furnace. Set the melting temperature between 1050℃ and 1150℃; the preheating time can be adjusted according to the material properties. Once the temperature reaches the set value, maintain a constant temperature for a period of time until the material is completely melted. In the molten state, add the selected reinforcing phase material (such as alumina particles) to the molten copper alloy in a predetermined proportion. Use a mechanical stirrer or other means to uniformly disperse the reinforcing phase material in the melt, ensuring no agglomeration. Under the protection of an inert gas (such as argon), control the cooling rate and allow the melt to gradually cool to room temperature. Water cooling or other rapid cooling methods can be used to form fine grains, thereby obtaining better performance.

[0078] Heat treatment of the cooled material, including solution treatment (800°C to 1000°C) and aging treatment (300°C to 500°C), is applied to improve its mechanical properties. Solution treatment helps to achieve a uniform distribution of alloying elements, while aging treatment further strengthens the material. Surface treatments, such as oxidation, chemical coating, or physical vapor deposition, are applied as needed to improve corrosion resistance.

[0079] Example 4

[0080] High-purity copper (Cu content greater than 90 wt%) was selected as the matrix material, and a copper-zinc (Cu-Zn) alloy was chosen as the basis for this embodiment. Titanium (Ti) was used as the main alloying element, with its addition amount controlled between 1 wt% and 5 wt%. The reinforcing phase material was barium titanate (BaTiO3) particles with a particle size of less than 1 μm, with a volume fraction of 5% to 20%. In addition, an appropriate amount of lanthanum (La) was added as an additive to optimize the microstructure.

[0081] The preparation method is as follows:

[0082] First, the copper matrix and titanium alloy elements are mixed evenly according to a predetermined ratio to ensure that each part of the material is in full contact.

[0083] The mixed powder is placed in a high-temperature furnace and heated to between 1050°C and 1150°C under inert gas protection to completely melt the material. After the copper matrix is ​​completely melted, the pre-prepared barium titanate particles are slowly added, and mechanical stirring is used to ensure that the reinforcing phase is evenly distributed throughout the melt.

[0084] Under a protective atmosphere, the melt is slowly cooled to room temperature to form a dense copper-based composite material. The cooled material is then subjected to solution treatment (800°C to 1000°C) and aging treatment (300°C to 500°C) to further enhance its mechanical properties.

[0085] Finally, the material undergoes surface treatment, such as oxidation, chemical coating, or physical vapor deposition, to enhance its corrosion resistance.

[0086] The beneficial effects of this embodiment are as follows: the addition of titanium (Ti) increases the material's oxidation resistance and heat resistance, while the presence of barium titanate (BaTiO3) particles not only improves the material's dielectric properties but also enhances its thermal stability. The addition of lanthanum (La) helps to form a more uniform microstructure, enabling the composite material to maintain stable performance under extreme temperature variations, making it particularly suitable for critical components in high-frequency electronic devices.

[0087] Comparative Example 1

[0088] High-purity copper (Cu content greater than 90wt%) was selected as the matrix material, and copper-zinc (Cu-Zn) alloy was selected as the basis for comparison. No alloying elements or reinforcing phase materials were added, and only a small amount of yttrium (Y) was added as a trace additive.

[0089] The preparation method is as follows:

[0090] The copper matrix and yttrium are mixed evenly in a predetermined ratio.

[0091] The mixed powder is placed in a high-temperature furnace and heated to between 1050°C and 1150°C under inert gas protection to completely melt the material.

[0092] Under a protective atmosphere, the melt is slowly cooled to room temperature to form a dense copper-based composite material. The cooled material is then subjected to solution treatment (800°C to 1000°C) and aging treatment (300°C to 500°C) to further enhance its mechanical properties.

[0093] Finally, the material undergoes surface treatment, such as oxidation, chemical coating, or physical vapor deposition, to enhance its corrosion resistance.

[0094] The comparative results show that, due to the absence of any alloying elements or reinforcing phases, the mechanical properties of the material are significantly lower than those of the examples, especially in high-temperature and corrosive environments. The stability and lifespan of the material are not as good as the composite material shown in the examples. However, this material has relatively good electrical and thermal conductivity, making it suitable for applications that do not require high-strength support.

[0095] The above-described embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some of the technical features. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.

Claims

1. A high-performance copper-based composite material for extreme environments, characterized in that, The composite material contains: a) A copper matrix, wherein the copper matrix comprises pure copper or a copper alloy, and the copper alloy further comprises copper-nickel, copper-beryllium, copper-zinc, or copper-tin alloys; b) A reinforcing phase material, wherein the reinforcing phase material is selected from carbon nanotubes, alumina particles, silicon nitride particles, silicon carbide particles, barium titanate particles, and intermetallic compounds; c) One or more alloying elements for improving the mechanical properties and corrosion resistance of the composite material, wherein the alloying elements include nickel, phosphorus, iron, manganese, cobalt, titanium, beryllium, and zirconium; d) Additives, said additives including yttrium and lanthanum; The volume fraction of the reinforcing phase material is 1% to 30%.

2. The high-performance copper-based composite material for extreme environments according to claim 1, characterized in that, The alloying element is at least one of nickel, phosphorus, iron, manganese, cobalt, titanium, beryllium, and zirconium, and the amount of the alloying element added accounts for 0.1 wt% to 10 wt% of the total weight of the composite material.

3. The high-performance copper-based composite material for extreme environments according to claim 1, characterized in that, The volume fraction of the reinforcing phase material is 1% to 30%.

4. The high-performance copper-based composite material for extreme environments according to claim 1, characterized in that, The copper alloy is a high-purity alloy with a copper content of 90 wt% or more.

5. The high-performance copper-based composite material for extreme environments according to claim 1, characterized in that, The reinforcing phase material is a reinforcing particle with a particle size of less than 1 μm or a reinforcing fiber with a length of less than 10 μm.

6. A method for preparing a high-performance copper-based composite material for extreme environments according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: a) Mix the copper matrix with the alloying elements evenly; b) Melt the mixture at a predetermined temperature; c) Add the reinforcing phase material to the molten mixture and stir until homogeneous; d) Cool to room temperature under a protective atmosphere.

7. The method for preparing a high-performance copper-based composite material for extreme environments according to claim 6, characterized in that, The predetermined temperature is between 1000°C and 1200°C.

8. The method for preparing a high-performance copper-based composite material for extreme environments according to claim 6, characterized in that, The heat treatment includes solution treatment and aging treatment, wherein the solution treatment temperature is 800℃ to 1000℃ and the aging treatment temperature is 300℃ to 500℃.

9. A method for preparing a high-performance copper-based composite material for extreme environments according to claim 6, characterized in that, The process following step d) includes a surface treatment process to improve the corrosion resistance of the composite material. The surface treatment process includes, but is not limited to, oxidation treatment, chemical coating, or physical vapor deposition.

10. A method for preparing a high-performance copper-based composite material for extreme environments according to claim 6, characterized in that, It also includes step e) heat-treating the cooled material to further improve its performance.

Images