Abstract: A kind of copper mesh woven by orthogonal method was introduced into aluminum matrix as reinforcement phase to prepare Al/Cu composite. The microstructure evolution, the relationship between fracture mechanism and mechanical properties of the Al/Cu composite were both observed and investigated on line by means of in-situ tensile scanning electron microscope (SEM). It is found in this study that under the same rolling deformation, both 25 ℃ cold rolling and 400 ℃ hot rolling may break the reinforced copper mesh and make it uniformly distributed in the matrix aluminum plate. Recorded load-displacement curves of the composite plate under in-situ tension exhibit obvious elastic stage, plastic stage and failure stage. Microcracks initiate around the Cu particles or stress concentrations. The main crack and its propagation are mainly formed by joint action of delamination cracking of the interface around the Cu particles and propagation of the microcracks along the slip line. Finally, the fracture path along the slip line takes 45 °with the uniaxial tensile direction. The plastic fracture of Al layer and the delamination-induced fracture on the Al/Cu bonding interface are the two main failure modes of the Al/Cu composite plate.

Key words: Al/Cu composite, in-situ tension, copper mesh, fracture failure