Role of Process Control Agent in the Synthesis of Multi‐Walled Carbon Nanotubes Reinforced Titanium Metal Matrix Powder Mixtures

Abstract

The present study investigates the influence of process control agent (PCA), i.e., stearic acid (SA) on the dispersion of multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) into the titanium (Ti) matrix during mechanical alloying. A planetary ball mill was used in dispersing 0.5 wt.% MWCNT into the Ti matrix. The powder mixtures were prepared in two batches: without and with the addition of 0.5 wt.% SA. Green compacts of high energy ball milled powder mixtures were consolidated by using a uniaxial hydraulic press. Raman spectroscopy combined with X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) techniques were used to characterize the powder mixtures and green compacts. The evolution of MWCNT has been discussed in conjunction with the formation of nano crystalline TiC in the ball milled powder mixtures.