Effect of Milling Parameters on the Structural, Microstructural and Physical Properties of Alumina-Titania-Graphite Nanocomposite

Abstract

Al2O3-TiO2-graphite nanocomposite can be used as alternative material for coating application. Fine composite coating particles is commonly produced by milling in a high energy ball milling. This study focused on evaluate the effects on the structural, microstructural and physical properties of Al2O3-TiO2-graphite nanocomposite. The alumina, titania and graphite powder were milled in a planetary ball mill at 2, 4, 8 and 10 h and 200, 250 and 300 rpm. The composite particles was compacted for green density determination. The phase analysis and microstructure of nanocomposite were characterized using X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). Increasing milling time and milling speed contributes to a small solubility between Al2O3 and TiO2. Increasing milling time and speed decreased the Al2O3 crystallite and internal strain increased as a result of continuous impact on the powder and repeated collision between powder and the wall container. Higher milling time and speed produce finer and flaky shape of Al2O3-TiO2-graphite particles which then affects the green density of the composite.