Wear Resistance and Surface Hardness of Carbon Nanotube Reinforced Alumina Matrix Nanocomposite by Cold Sprayed Process

Carbon nanotube reinforced alumina matrix nanocomposite was fabricated by cold spray process on Al-Si alloys surfaces. The effects of various amounts of CNTs from 0, 2 and 4 wt % on alumina powders were investigated. Results show that the improvement in both wear resistance and hardness was provided by 2 wt. % CNTs reinforcement. The hardness of carbon nanotube reinforced alumina matrix nanocomposite was increased due to an enhanced load sharing of homogeneously distributed carbon nanotubes. Homogeneous distribution of CNTs within the Al2O3 matrix and strong interfacial connection between CNTs-Al2O3 give nanocomposites with superior wear properties.