Cr3C2 reinforced tin-bronze matrix composites with enhanced mechanical properties and wear resistance

The tin bronze-xCr3C2-graphite composites (x = 5, 10, 15, and 20 wt%) were fabricated by mechanical alloying and spark plasma sintering. Fine-scale uniform distribution of composites was achieved. The Cr3C2 particles enhanced the mechanical properties and wear resistance of copper-based composites. The as-sintered tin bronze20Cr3C2-graphite showed a hardness of 109 HV, a compressive strength of 333 MPa, and a yield strength of 219 MPa. In addition, the wear rate of as-sintered tin bronze-20Cr3C2-graphite was maintained in the order of 10-5 at 30 N, 50 N, and 70 N. The wear mechanism of the studied composites varied from surface fatigue and adhesion wear to abrasive wear with the increase of Cr3C2 content during dry sliding. These findings provide a new method for developing copper-based composites with enhanced mechanical properties and wear resistance.