Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Ag-Nb2AlC composite materials with a Nb2AlC volume percentage ranging from 10% to 40% were prepared using the spark plasma sintering method. The composite with 10% Nb2AlC achieved a high density of 99.2%. The microhardness exhibited a peak value of 84.8 HV at a Nb2AlC content of 30%. The conductivity of the composite material decreases linearly with an increase in Nb2AlC content, ranging from 0.134 MS·cm−1 to 0.086 MS·cm−1. A three-dimensional laser scanning microscope was employed to characterize the morphology following arc erosion, and the erosion area was subsequently measured. Results indicated that arc erosion was concentrated on the Ag-20 vol.% Nb2AlC composite material, resulting in a smaller circular erosion area. As Nb2AlC content increased to 30% and 40%, the arc shifted, leading to an expansion of the erosion area. Notably, the Ag-30 vol.% Nb2AlC composite material exhibited the highest arc energy (3.401 kJ). The eroded surface displayed spattered particles and a convex morphology. Additionally, EDS and Raman spectroscopic analyses revealed the formation of Nb2O5, Ag2O, and Al2O3 on the surface. The arc erosion mechanism was analyzed from an electrical perspective, indicating that the formation of the arc is attributed to the development of a positive streamer and air breakdown within a strongly nonuniform field. Consequently, the surface atoms of Ag-Nb2AlC absorb energy, leading to the formation of metal ions that combine with the ionized air to create oxides. This research lays a theoretical foundation for the application of silver-based electrical contact materials.
Source: Molecules
Authors: Xiaochen Huang, Hongdi Zhang, Dazhang Wang, Zijue Zhou
Institutions: Bengbu University, Huainan Normal University
Language: English
Subfield: Mechanical Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,258
Awards: G5285783509, G5739855186
OpenAlex ID: W4407254071