Experimental Investigation of Mechanical and Chemical Properties of Aluminium Reinforced with MWCNT

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Abstract
Carbon Nanotubes (CNT’s) have recently been found to possess extraordinary mechanical, thermal and electrical properties. Extensive studies on the properties of CNT’s as a re-inforcing agent in Metal Matrix Composites are being investigated. In this study, powder metallurgy technique has been employed for the matrix material being Aluminium 6063 with CNT in varying concentrations as reinforcing agent. The powders are mixed thoroughly using ball milling and are compacted in a compacting die made of D-2 Steel to make green compact. It is then sintered at 350°C to 550°C at a rate of increase of 50°C per hour. Chemical, Microscopic examination, Compression and Hardness tests were performed on the specimens and were compared with pure aluminium specimens to show the effects of varying concentrations of CNT. The study indicated that there was no improvement in hardness of the composite on addition of CNT while there was an increase in compressive strength. The microstructure of pure aluminium and Al-CNT composite had fine grains of pure aluminium particles and Al-Si eutectic particles throughout the matrix phase.

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