Abstract
In this study, we report the processing, microstructure, and microhardness of aluminum-copper composites reinforced with multi-walled carbon nanotubes (CNTs). Composite powders were prepared by a high energy ball (HEB) milling process then consolidated by vacuum sintering and hot isostatic pressing (HIP) techniques. The specimens show a uniform dispersion of CNTs in the Al-Cu matrix with CNT content up to 1 wt.% and a cluster formation observed with higher CNT content of 1.5 wt.%. The specimens have a relative density of 92 % to 95 % for composites sintered by vacuum sintering and 93 % to 96 % for composites sintered by HIP. Microhardness of specimens increases with increasing CNT content up to 1_wt% and then decreases due to the formation of CNT clusters. Microhardness is enhanced both by the dispersion strengthening effect of CNTs and by precipitation hardening of Al-Cu matrix.
Highlights
Because of the combination of the outstanding properties of the metal matrix and reinforcement materials, metal matrix composite (MMC) is one of the most important materials mentioned recently
Good dispersion of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) within Al-Cu powders using high energy ball (HEB) method was achieved only for the CNT contents up to 1 wt.%. This result is consistent with the results of previous work done by Chen et al [19], and Saheb [20], in which HEB milling was mainly used for CNT dispersion
The formation of CNT clusters with high CNT content will reflect in the microstructure, density and microhardness of sintered specimens that will be discussed
Summary
Because of the combination of the outstanding properties of the metal matrix and reinforcement materials, metal matrix composite (MMC) is one of the most important materials mentioned recently. This is due to their application in many industry fields such as aerospace, defense and security, mechanical, electrical, and electronics etc. Since carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were discovered by S. Ijima [1], CNTs have attracted enormous interest among researchers globally due to their special properties such as unique structures, very high mechanical strength, good thermal and electrical conductivity as well as chemical stability. Because of the above properties, CNTs have been used for reinforcing polymers, ceramics. Trinh et al /Science of Sintering, 50 (2018) 163-171
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