An effective approach to synthesize carbon nanotube-reinforced Al matrix composite precursor

Abstract

Aluminum-based nanocomposites reinforced with carbon nanotubes have increased scientific attention in today’s life. The dispersion quality was the critical aspect, which decides the homogeneous distribution of CNTs within the Al matrix as starting precursors. In this study, a new attempt has been made to obtain a uniformly dispersed Al-0.75% CNT precursor via combining ultra-sonication, cubic tumbler rod milling, and spray drying. This process was integrated with organic deflocculant (formulator) in specific proportion to transform as a semi-wet-based route. The effect of milling media on the morphology and interface structure of the as-produced composite precursor after all the processing steps was investigated through scanning electron microscope (SEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, Raman spectroscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The results reveal that the approach is effective in CNT dispersion in Al precursor, which shields the nanotube structure from damage for longer periods of milling time due to the organic formulator mixture, and also, the CNT retention in the Al precursor with minimum clustering is identified compared to the ball milling process. Carbon traces were confirmed in the as-produced composite precursor by this approach.

Distribution of Carbon Nanotubes in an Aluminum Matrix by a Solution-Mixing Process

“…The XRD spectra of pure aluminum and the composites (Al-0.5 wt % CNTs powder) produced through ball-milling and solution mixing are shown in Figure . As can be seen in the XRD pattern, pure Al showed strong characteristic peaks at 38, 44, 65, and 78° of 2θ . The as-produced composite powder also shows an approximately similar peak to that of pure Al powder.…”

“…As can be seen in the XRD pattern, pure Al showed strong characteristic peaks at 38, 44, 65, and 78°of 2θ. 38 The asproduced composite powder also shows an approximately similar peak to that of pure Al powder. These indicate no phase transformation during the mixing process.…”

Microstructure and compressive behavior of lamellar Al2O3p/Al composite prepared by freeze-drying and mechanical-pressure infiltration method

“…Al matrix composites reinforced with homogeneous distributed particles have been widely investigated due to their high specific stiffness [1], strength [2] and tailorable thermal-physical properties [3]. However, the strength enhancement in homogeneous composites is usually achieved at the expense of plasticity [4].…”