Reinforced 3D Composite Structures of γ-, α-Al2O3 with Carbon Nanotubes and Reduced GO Ribbons Printed from Boehmite Gels

Abstract

The ability of boehmite to form printable inks has sparked interest in the manufacturing of 3D alumina (Al2O3) and composite structures by enabling direct ink writing methods while avoiding the use of printing additives. These materials may exhibit high porosity due to the printing and sintering procedures, depending on the intended application. The 3D-printed porous composite structures of γ-Al2O3 and α-Al2O3 containing 2 wt.% of carbon nanotubes or reduced graphene oxide ribbons were fabricated from boehmite gels, followed by different heat treatments. The reinforcing effect of these carbon nanostructures was evidenced by compression tests carried out on the different alumina structures. A maximum relative increase of 50% in compressive strength was achieved for the γ-Al2O3 composite structure reinforced with reduced graphene oxide ribbons, which was also accompanied by an increase in the specific surface area.