Graphene Nanoplatelet Reinforced Tantalum Carbide.

摘要

In this study, Graphene nanoplatelet (GNP) reinforced tantalum carbide (TaC) composites were studied for their mechanical and thermal properties as they relate to usage as ultra high temperature materials. Samples were fabricated using Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS) and ultrahigh-pressure consolidation. The results of mechanical property testing showed GNP reinforced composites have improved modulus, hardness, damping, and damage resistance over unreinforced TaC. Results of thermal analysis during plasma oxidation testing showed an increase in thermal conductivity in GNP reinforced composites resulting in a reduction of peak sample surface temperature. This study resulted in the publications listed below and attached to this document for additional detail (the support from this grant was acknowledged in each). This award also supported the research of three graduate students (A. Nieto, C. Zhang, S. Rengifo : 1 female, 2 of Hispanic decent) and one undergraduate student (S. Thomas).