Improved tensile strength of carbon nanotube reinforced aluminum composites processed by powder metallurgy

Abstract

Carbon nanotube (CNT) reinforced aluminum (Al) composites were synthesized using the powder metallurgy (P/M) technique, combined with hot extrusion and hot rolling. 0-2.0wt.% of CNTs were added as reinforcements. The effect of CNTs on the mechanical properties of Al was investigated and a significant enhancement in tensile strength was obtained compared with the pure matrix. The improved strength was analyzed based on (i) Orowan strengthening, (ii) thermal mismatch between CNTs and matrix, and (iii) load partition effect due to the CNTs.