Synthesis and Characterization of Aluminum-Carbon Nanotube Composite by Cryogenic Milling
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Authors
Bottolfson, Brent A.
Subjects
Aluminum. Carbon Nanotube
Composite
Cryogenic Milling
Mechanical Alloying
Metal Matrix
Composite
Cryogenic Milling
Mechanical Alloying
Metal Matrix
Advisors
Osswald, Sebastian
Brewer, Luke
Date of Issue
2012-03
Date
Mar-12
Publisher
Monterey, California. Naval Postgraduate School
Language
Abstract
Cryogenic milling was studied for the ex situ strengthening of aluminum (Al) with carbon nanotubes (CNT). Characterization of mechanically alloyed Al-CNT powders was conducted in preparation for bulk powder processing to be used in cold spray. Al-CNT metal matrix composite powders with 5 wt.% and 10 wt.% CNT were synthesized by cryogenic milling of the blended component powders. Stearic acid was used as a process control agent to minimize agglomeration of the powders upon milling. CNT reinforcement of the Al powder was successfully obtained while maintain CNT structure after milling the powders for periods ranging between six and 90 minutes using a SPEX 6870 Freezer/Mill. Composition and properties of the Al-CNT composite was studied using X-ray diffraction, optical microscopy, nanoindentation, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Raman spectroscopy, and laser diffraction particle size analysis.
Type
Thesis
Description
Series/Report No
Department
Mechanical Engineering