Application of nanodiamonds for in situ synthesis of TiC reinforcing nanoparticles inside aluminium matrix during mechanical alloying

Abstract

Method of in situ synthesis of TiC nanoparticles inside aluminium matrix directly during mechanical alloying from aluminium, titanium and nanodiamonds is developed. For this method, nanodiamonds were used as carbon material and as intensificator of mechanosynthesis during the ball milling. Optimal content of matrix material was determined. If the amount of aluminium falls below the optimal level, the synthesis becomes extremely intensified; it means that during short period a large amount of heat is released, which causes substantial grinding jars heating and frequently results in melting of sealing gaskets and other process failures. In case the amount of aluminium in the mixture grows beyond the optimal level, the synthesis process is slowed down. Optimal composition for obtaining TiC nanoparticles inside aluminium matrix is following: 43%wt Al+57%wt TiC. Average size of nanoreinforcements of developed composite equals 31nm. Developed material can be applied in casting technologies as an individual product and as a master alloy.