Copper-coated silicon carbide (SiC) particles have been developed to improve the strength and wear resistance of Al-Si matrix composites, which are utilized in brake pads and, hence find applications in aerospace and automobile industries. Copper-coated SiC powder is prepared by electroless plating and is characterized by scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. Copper-coated SiCp reinforced Al-Si composites are prepared by a powder metallurgy method, and their microstructures and properties are compared with those of Al-Si and Al-Si-Cu matrix composites reinforced with SiCp without copper coating. Our results show that the copper-coated SiCp-reinforced Al-Si composite exhibits advantageous mechanical properties and better frictional wear resistance.
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