Using plasma-based ion implantation, two types of gradient layers have been prepared on 2024 Al alloy. One is prepared by N-implantation then C-deposition, the other adds an interlayer composed of a Ti layer and a Ti–N layer between N-implantation and C-deposition. C-deposition is carried out at various implanting voltages or C2H2/H2 ratios. The composition depth profiles of these layers were characterized by x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The structure, morphologies and microstructure of the C layers were studied using Raman spectroscopy, atomic force microscope and transmission electron microscope, respectively. The surface hardness was measured with a Knoop tester and a mechanical property microprobe. The dry ball-on-disc wear tests were performed in ambient air. The gradient layer without interlayer is composed of an N-implanted layer rich in AlN and a diamond-like carbon (DLC) layer (film), and the two layers are connected with a C–Al transition layer containing Al4C3. The Ti layer rich in α -Ti and the N-implanted layer are connected by a Ti–Al transition layer containing TiAl3, while the Ti–N layer rich in TiN and the DLC film are connected by a C–Ti transition layer containing TiC, TiCN, etc. Thus, the gradient layer with interlayers has optimized the gradient structure. DLC films are compact and amorphous, contain high sp3/sp2 ratios and depend on the implanting voltage and the C2H2/H2 ratio. Similarly, these gradient layers exhibit significant improvement in morphologies, surface hardness and tribological properties; the interlayer, the implanting voltage and the C2H2/H2 ratio all have prominent effects on these properties.

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In the present work, the properties of graphene-nanoplates/aluminum (GNPs/Al) composites with a heterogeneous matrix design were investigated. The advantage of the heterogeneous matrix was investigated by the finite element method. Then, 0.6 wt.% (GNPs/6061Al)/2024Al (heterogeneous matrix) and 0.6 wt.% GNPs/6061Al composites were prepared by ball milling, pressure infiltration technology, and hot extrusion. The aggregation of GNPs was eliminated and the interlayer slide of GNPs was observed. Mechanical property test results show that the mechanical properties of the heterogeneous matrix composite are better than that of a homogeneous matrix composite, including strength, elastic modulus, and plasticity. It is assumed that the heterogeneous matrix design enhances the non-uniform stress field during the deformation treatment. This improves the dispersion of GNPs, grain refinement, and produces the few-layer graphene (FLG), thus enhancing the strengthening effect of GNPs. Meanwhile, heterogeneous matrix design is thought to introduce more hardening mechanisms to increase the plasticity of materials and improve the intrinsic trade-off of strength and toughness.

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