Constructing efficient heat transfer channels at the interface of Diamond/Cu composites

Understanding the mechanism of interfacial heat flux transfer is the basis of improving the thermal conductivity of diamond reinforced metal matrix composites. In this paper, the diamond/Cu(Ti) (38 vol.% diamond) composites with roughened surfaces are prepared by vacuum hot pressing sintering, and the effect of interfacial contact area on the thermal conductivity of composites is investigated by experiments and finite element simulations. A 48% (from 347 to 512 W·m−1·K−1, which is close to 90% of the theoretical value) enhancement in thermal conductivity is obtained. The roughened interfaces increase the contact areas, which provide more heat transfer channels and concentrated thermal flux routes and then optimize the efficiency of thermal flux transfer and then improve the thermal conductivity of the composites. These results provide the experimental and theoretical basis for improving the thermal conductivity of composites by the design of interface structure.