Influences of MWCNT bonding strength on Microstructure, mechanical performance of Alsi10 mg alloy composite

Abstract

The high strength-to-weight ratio material is becoming essential in various engineering sectors like automotive, structural, aviation, and marine. This investigation is to produce the high strength to lightweight AlSi10Mg alloy composite with 0, 5, 10, and 15 wt% of multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) as reinforcement through vacuum-assisted liquid state processing. Characteristics-wise, the metal matrix composites are synthesized by using organic, inorganic, and fiber as reinforcement. The developed composites are subjected to physical, microstructural, and mechanical behaviour. The outcome results of the SEM micrograph show good interfacial bonding between AlSi10Mg and MWCNT. The composite contained higher content of MWCNT (15 wt%) and observed maximum tensile strength (192 ± 1.2 MPa) with reduced weight (2.316 g/cc). Tensile strength was increased by 23.87 %, and its weight reduction was 35.89 % compared to unreinforced AlSi10Mg alloy composite. The energy absorption capability was increased significantly (53.84 %) compared to the unreinforced AlSi10Mg composite. The hardness of the composite was found to have a marginal improvement on the increased content of MWCNT.