Characteristics of an optimized active metal cast joint between copper and C/C

Abstract

In this paper, an optimized active metal cast copper to carbon composite (C/C) joint is examined. Mechanical characterization by means of shear and tensile tests as well as fracture toughness measurements at ambient temperature are employed, which show that the obtained values are above those of the reference joint that has been used so far. The phases occurring at the interface region and the fracture surface of the optimized joint are investigated in detail to explain the improved mechanical behaviour. The composition and the morphology at the interface region are analysed by means of scanning electron microscopy. In addition, the crack path is analysed by stereomicroscopy. The improved properties can be explained by the circumstance that the fracture of the optimized joint is not restricted to the interface between the occurring carbide and the C/C but changes between C/C, the carbide to C/C interface and the copper, depending on the local structure in the C/C composite.