Properties of copper reinforced by laser-generated Al2O3-nanoparticles

Cu was strengthened by Al2O3-nanoparticles using powder-metallurgical techn ique. The Al2O3-nanoparticles were generated by Nd:YAG-laser ablation of co rundum followed by condensation of the induced vapor in a defined atmospher e and had a median particle diameter of 14 nm. In order to distribute the n anoparticles in the Cu-matrix, Cu-micropowder with a median particle diamet er of about 20 mu m was mixed or ball milled with 3 Vol.% of the nanoscaled ceramic powder followed by hot extrusion. The mechanical properties of the composites were investigated by tensile tests and hardness measurement and the microstructure was examined by light, scanning electron, and transmiss ion electron microscopy. (C)1999 Acta Metallurgica Inc.