Copper Nanocomposite for 3D Printing

Dragon Copper

Dragon Copper is a nanocomposite material. Innovative for 3D printing, it consists of a copper matrix in which carbon nanotubes are dispersed. The addition of carbon nanotubes has the dual effect of improving the electrical and thermal conduction properties of metallic copper, while also significantly increasing the mechanical strength.

How does it work?

The production process is based on two steps:

1. 1. 1. 1) An innovative method of mixing nanotubes with pure copper powder which allows for a fine and uniform dispersion;
      2. 2) The production of nanocomposite artefacts by additive manufacturing, in particular Laser Bed Powder Fusion.

The combination of the material with additive manufacturing makes it easy to produce complex-shaped objects with advanced properties; for example, the addition of 0.1% by weight of nanotubes makes it possible to increase the stress at break by more than 170%, paving the way for the use of this material for components that have both thermal and structural functions.

Possible applications

• Aereospace;
• Satellite thermal management;
• Telecommunications field;
• Development of compact heat exchangers for operating/maintaining the efficiency of major hybrid and electric propulsion systems;
• Naval and automotive field.

Advantages

• Reduction of waste material;
• Realisation of otherwise not feasible geometries;
• Production of ready-to-use parts in as-built version;
• Better thermal and electrical conductivity than pure copper; increased mechanical strength.