Effect of Applied Pressure on Mechanical Properties of Squeeze Cast Al- MWCNT Composites

摘要

Multi-wall carbon nanotube (MWCNT) is an engineering material with attractive properties which is finding widespread applications as reinforcement in metal matrix composites. In this research, effect of applied pressure on mechanical properties of squeeze cast A356-MWCNT nanocomposites was investigated. First, predetermined quantities of strips of pure Al-MWCNT composite produced by accumulative roll bonding (ARB) method, A356 and Al-13%Si ingots were melted and stirred in a crucible. Then the composite slurries were solidified under different pressures in a squeeze casting set-up. The purpose of ARB treatment was to enhance the distribution and decrease the agglomeration tendency of the MWCNTs. The results show that reinforcing with nano-tubes and increasing the squeeze pressure leads to increase in hardness, shear and bending strengths of the produced nanocomposites. The results are discussed in terms of the effects of reinforcement addition and solidification under pressure on better wettability and distribution of MWCNTs by liquid A356 aluminum alloy and the induced higher solidification rate.