Graphene reinforced Cu superfine wires: 100-m length with enhanced mechanical strength and electrical conductivity

Abstract

100-m-long level of copper/graphene composite superfine wires (Cu/Gr wires) with a precise diameter of 100 µm were successfully prepared for the first time. This achievement was accomplished through a combination of hot-pressed sintering and cold drawing techniques, remarkably executed without the need for any intermediate annealing processes, showcasing a significant advancement in material fabrication. As a result, the Cu/Gr wires demonstrated exceptional mechanical strength, reaching 637 MPa, and simultaneously preserved superior electrical conductivity, achieving 95.7% of the International Annealed Copper Standard (IACS), marking a significant advancement in material performance. The enhanced performance is attributed to the in situ growth of high-quality graphene, which is uniformly dispersed throughout the Cu matrix, as well as the formation of nano-twins and dislocations induced by large deformation processing. The present work is poised to deliver premium electrical wires and cables, designed to meet the stringent demands of electric power systems, aerospace, and the transportation industry.