Journal of Renewable Energy and Mechanics
Vol. 9 No. 01 (2026): REM VOL 9 No 01 2026

The Effect of Variations in Mixtures of Copper and Graphite Powder on Electrical Conductivity, Bending Strength, and Microstructure of Polymer Conductor Plates

Thaib, Hamdi (Unknown)
Panuh, Dedikarni (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
31 Mar 2026

Abstract

Polymer conductor plates are made from a Polymer Matrix Composite (PMC) comprising non-metallic particles and a polymer matrix. One effective conductor of electric current is copper. This study was conducted to investigate how different mixtures of copper and graphite powder affect electrical conductivity, bending strength, and microstructure of the polymer conductor plate. The study tested various mixtures of copper powder, graphite, and epoxy resin in proportions of 15%: 75%: 10%, 20%: 70%: 10%, and 25%: 65%: 10%. The highest electrical conductivity and bending strength were observed in sample 3, which contained 25% copper powder, 65% graphite, and 10% epoxy resin. For comparison, a pure copper (100%) reference sample was also tested, yielding an electrical conductivity of 6.25 S/cm as a benchmark for the maximum achievable value. This is due to the greater amount of copper powder, which reduces resistance in the polymer conductor plate. Lower resistance in the polymer conductor plate allows easier current flow; thus, lower resistivity enhances its electrical conductivity. A high bending strength is achieved because copper is a malleable metal that can withstand directional loads. This is evident from the microstructure test results, where a higher copper content correlates with higher electrical conductivity and bending strength.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

REM

Publisher

Subject

Automotive Engineering Engineering Industrial & Manufacturing Engineering Mechanical Engineering Social Sciences

Description

REM is a peer-reviewed and open access journal that publishes significant and important research from area of Mechanical and Material Science and Development of Technology related with Mechanical Engineering. We accept submission from all over the world on English language. Our Editorial Board ...