Copper matrix nanocomposites based on carbon nanotubes or graphene

Recently, copper–nanocarbon composites have become the focal point of many research groups around the world. The reason for this phenomenon is that carbon nanotubes or graphene have proven that they can bring the technology of copper to a whole new level due to their extraordinary electrical, thermal and mechanical properties. The addition of even small amounts of nanocarbon into a copper matrix can significantly enhance its performance, but unfortunately integration of these two materials is not trivial. In this review article, we highlight methods of manufacture of Cu–nanocarbon composites and properties of the resulting material. We stress their strong and weak points as well as indicate pending challenges remaining to be sorted out to produce a nanocomposite of significantly improved properties as compared to neat Cu. Finally, we identify future directions, which must be taken to bring these materials closer to mass-production and eventually to real-life applications.