Multiwall carbon nanotube/copper porous coating for heat transfer application

This paper describes the production of porous surfaces using multiwall carbon nanotube (MWCNT)/copper composite powders, as well as the investigation of the pore characteristics and mechanical properties of the MWCNT coated porous surfaces for boiling heat transfer application. The influence of MWCNT content, milling time and sintering temperature on porosity was investigated. When MWCNT content increased, it resulted in a decrease in porosity and microhardness; however, adhesion is improved. With the increase in milling time, the porosity of coatings increased; meanwhile, the mechanical properties enhanced. The high temperature diffusion and shrinkage of Cu particles resulted in removal of the small pores. Thus, with an increase in sintering temperature, the porosity percentage and average pore diameter decreased.