Open-Cell Metal-SiC Composite Foams by Electrolytic Co-Deposition to Polyurethane Substrates

Abstract

In this research, open cell Ni-SiC and Cu-SiC composite foams are produced by electrolytic codeposition on the polyurethane foam substrates using conventional metal plating I electrolytes with suspended SiC nanoparticles. The method ensures the production of MMCI open-cell foams; content of SiC inclusions in the metal matrix of up to 10 wt.% can be controlled by the SiC powder concentration in the electrolytes. Effects of the foam pore size (surface area) and the electrolyte composition on the content of SiC inclusions and the density gradient across the foam are studied.