The Reaction between Ti3AlC2 and Cu in the Synthesis Process of Cu/Ti3AlC2 Composites

In this work, the reaction between Ti3AlC2 and Cu in the synthesis process of Cu/Ti3AlC2 composites has been studied. According to the results of XRD, SEM and EDS, Ti3AlC2 reacts easily with Cu to generate TiC and intermetallic compound Cu9Al4 when the holding temperature is higher than 950°C, no matter how much Cu is contained. In addition, when the content of Cu increases, more layered Ti3AlC2 grains react with Cu and form irregular shaped grain containing Cu, Ti, Al and C elements. Therefore, the Cu/Ti3AlC2 composites cannot be synthesized above 950°C by hot-pressed method if no specific treatment is used.