Graphene and its derivative reinforced tungsten–copper composites for electrical contact applications: A review

This review summarizes the advancement on sintered composites based on tungsten–copper (W–Cu) reinforced with graphene (Gr) or its derivative such as reduced Gr oxide (rGO) for use as electrical contacts applied in switching devices. Main synthesis approaches for preparing Gr or rGO reinforced W–Cu composite powders and their consolidations by using various powder metallurgy techniques are presented. The nature of the initial materials, synthesis conditions, processing parameters, and the relevant findings are disclosed and discussed. The improvement in microstructure and technical characteristics like density, electrical conductivity, hardness, coefficient of friction, wear rate, and arc ablation behavior of W–Cu–Gr/rGO composites are highlighted comparatively with that of unreinforced composites. This review reveals an insight into a novel class of composites as candidates for electrical contact applications.