Microstructure, mechanical and wear properties of Cu–ZrO2 nanocomposites

Cu–ZrO 2 nanocomposites were produced by the thermochemical process followed by powder metallurgy technique. Microstructure development during fabrication process was investigated by X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscope and transmission electron microscope. The results show an improved distribution of zirconium dioxide (ZrO 2 ) nanoparticles (45 nm) in the copper matrix, which resulted in the improvement of mechanical properties of Cu–ZrO 2 composites. The nanocomposite with 9 wt-% ZrO 2 possesses the highest hardness (136.5 HV) and the superior compressive strength (413.5 MPa), resulting in an overall increase by 52 and 25%, respectively. The wear rate of the nanocomposites increased with increasing applied loads or sliding velocity.