Abstract

MWCNT/alumina composites were prepared by a flocculation method combined with acid treatment of the MWCNTs and spark plasma sintering. The effects of varying the processing conditions, namely the acid treatment temperature (50–80°C), MWCNT content (0–10vol.%) and sintering temperature (1200–1600°C) on the composites’ microstructure, electrical conductivity and mechanical properties were investigated. This found that flocculation processing brings about a good dispersibility of the MWCNTs, especially with higher acid treatment temperature, which enhances their reinforcing and grain refining effect. When combined with a low sintering temperature, this significantly improves the mechanical properties of the composites.As a result, a composite prepared using a sintering temperature of 1200°C and an acid treatment temperature of 80°C exhibited a fracture toughness greater than that of a monolithic alumina, even with a MWCNT content as high as 10vol.%.

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