Flow behavior of Cu/CNTs feedstocks for powder injection molding

In this study, the flow behavior of multi-walled
carbon nanotubes (CNTs) reinforced copper matrix feedstocks
is presented. The solid loadings in the copper feedstock were
investigated in the ranges of
55-61 Vol. % using binder. Pure
copper (Cu) and Cu/CNTs feedstocks were compounded using
internal mixer machine for homoge
nous dispersion of solids in
the binder. The flow behavior
was measured using a capillary
rheometer in the shear rate range expected to occur during
powder injection molding. An acceptable increasing trend in
viscosity of the copper feedst
ock with powder loading was
recorded. Cu/CNTs composite feedstocks showed viscosity
more than 1000 Pa.s which is most probably due to the
addition of CNTs and increasing trend in viscosity of Cu/CNTs
was noted as well. The results also identified that the feedstock
containing 59 vol. % copper was most suitable for substitution
of CNTs in Cu feedstock.