The key point by the alloy design of copper alloys is the improvement of mechanical properties without losing the electric and thermal conductivity properties. It is known that by precipitation hardening, the hardness of low-alloy copper can be increased significantly. In order to achieve a further increase in hardness, the copper matrix can be reinforced with fine-dispersed oxide micro- or nanoparticles. A new approach for the coating of ceramic nanoparticles (alumina, zirconia, titania) with thin and compact metallic films is used for the introduction of particles in copper alloy before additive manufacturing process.

A novel approach for fabricating copper-coated ceramic micro- and nanoparticles utilizing a biopolymer-based coating with pectin subsequently followed by electroless deposition is reported. The biopolymer pectin is modified with phosphate groups covalently binding to the particle surface, while the polymer itself promotes the formation of metal centres on the surface due to the high affinity to metal cations. A following reduction of the immobilised metal ions ensures the autocatalytic deposition on the ceramic surface. The sugar-based (galactose, xylose, and glucose) electroless plating process in combination with an organic-based treatment ensures a homogeneous metal coating method. As a benefit, precious metal activation of alumina particles and hazardous reducing agents typically employed are not required, creating a low-cost, non-toxic and sustainable process. Metal plated micro particles show a uniform and homogeneous coating rendering them as ideal additives for application in metal matrix composites. These ceramic metal composites can be used in a wide range of applications where high-strength metal components are needed.