Fabrication of carbon nanotube reinforced Al composites with well-balanced strength and ductility

► The in situ chemical vapor deposition combined with ball milling for a short time are used to synthesize CNT/Al composites. ► The well dispersed CNT reinforcement is deeply embedded in the Al powder forming an effective interface bonding with matrix. ► The 2.5 wt.%-CNT/Al composites exhibit the ultimate tensile strength of 334 MPa and ductility of ∼18% elongation to failure. ► Well-balanced strength and ductility are achieved in CNT-reinforced Al composites.