China3D printingNet February 10th, a group of researchers from Uppsala University and Graphmatech, a graphene expert, are using copper powder to perform high-strength parts3D printingSignificant progress has been made in this regard.
By using Graphmatech’s proprietary coating technology, the team was able to coat the outer surface of copper powder particles with a graphene layer.Since graphene is relatively dark, the coating reduces mixing3D printingThe reflectivity of the powder greatly increases its energy absorption level. When printing with a laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF) system, it was found that this can translate into higher part density and higher mechanical properties.
Professor Ulf Jansson’s research team led the research at the university’s Ångström laboratory. He said: “The developed new process of coating metal powder with graphene opens up very interesting prospects for the design of new materials in various applications.”
SEM image of graphene-coated copper powder. The picture comes from Uppsala University.
Highly reflective metal problem
Due to the optical characteristics of L-PBF, highly reflective metals (such as pure copper) are used for3D printingMay face challenges. At the wavelengths commonly used in most industrial systems, much of the energy transmitted by the laser is only reflected rather than absorbed, which can lead to pores and voids in the printed parts where the powder is not completely melted.
Copper’s excellent thermal conductivity also makes it an excellent heat sink, which means that printed parts tend to cool quickly-so large that cracking caused by shrinkage after construction is a real problem.The combination of these factors makes copper and other similar metals, at least in their pure form, very unsuitable for laser-based3D printingprocess.
Dr. Mamoun Taher, CEO of Graphmatech, explained: “By using Graphmatech’s patented graphene technology to modify the surface of copper powder, we have successfully reduced the reflectance by 67%.3D printingThe hybrid materials have the potential to add value in a range of industries such as electric vehicles, electronics and defense. “
Graphene coating not only improves the printability of copper, but also3D printingSurviving the process means that it can further increase the density of printed components while giving them a smooth black gloss. When it comes to non-mechanical properties, graphene coatings also help prevent ultraviolet rays and corrosion, improving fire resistance and durability. Graphmatech has cooperated with several project partners to develop coated powder composite materials for additive manufacturing, and is currently expanding the scale of its patented technology.
3D printing
On graphene-coated copper” alt=”cylinder
3D printing
On graphene-coated copper” width=”620″ height=”402″ />
Cylinder3D printingOn graphene-coated copper. Image courtesy of Uppsala University.
3D printingCopper in the industry
The red-brown material is characterized by its excellent electrical conductivity and ductility, making copper the main choice for electrical wiring and thermal components such as heat exchangers.Although laser-based3D printingThe process is largely incompatible with metal, but FDM printing based on extrusion has achieved greater success.
As early as 2020,3D printingMachine manufacturer Markforged announced the release of its own pure copper wire option, which can be combined with the company’s Metal X 3D printingMachine together. The company said that customers now have the potential to reduce lead times and parts costs compared to traditional manufacturing processes that use commonly used metals to make parts.
Elsewhere, materials developer Copper3D previously3D printingAn antibacterial breastfeeding device made of the company’s proprietary PLACTIVE filament. PLA injected with nano-copper is used as the interface between mother and child to inactivate HIV in contaminated breast milk.
China3D printingNet original article!
(Editor in charge: admin)
0 Comments for “Researchers add graphene to improve the strength and density of 3D printed copper”