Study on Preparation and Properties of CNTs/Al2009 Composites by Cryogenic Milling

Abstract

The CNTs/Al2009 composite powders were prepared by cryogenic milling. The CNTs were uniformly dispersed on the surface of Al2009 powders. And then the CNTs/2009Al composites were fabricated by hot extrusion/hot isostatic pressing method. The effects of CNTs content and cryogenic milling process on the dispersion of CNTs in Al2009 matrix, the microstructure of powders and the properties of composites were studied by Scanning electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy and tensile strength testing at room temperature. The results showed that the dispersion of CNTs was improved with the extension of ball milling time (1h~4h), but the damage degree of CNTs was intensified. In comparison, CNTs had the highest damage rate at the beginning of ball milling. As the milling time increased, the mechanical properties began to increase slightly and then decreased. When the ball milling time was 2h, the mechanical properties reached the highest. Cryogenic milling could achieve good dispersion in the Al2009 matrix for mixed powders with low CNTs content. When the CNTs content increased to 1.0%, a small amount of agglomeration appeared, but for composites, the strengthening effect of CNTs was more dominant. When CNTs were further added, the dispersion was remarkably lowered and the performance was deteriorated. CNTs (1.0wt.%)/Al2009 composites had excellent mechanical properties. The tensile strength reached 560MPa, which was 25% higher than Al2009.