Effect addition of graphene on electrical conductivity and tensile strength for Recycled electric power transmission wires

In this study, effect of artificial aging and cold rolling on the conductive and tensile properties of graphene reinforced aluminum matrix composites has been investigated. Graphene reinforced aluminum matrix composites were prepared by pyrolysis method. Graphene nanopwoder have been applied as reinforcing phase in molten pure aluminum (99.5%). Al wires (scrap wire damaged) are melted and graphene nanopwoder (0.5 %) can be added. Al-graphene alloy was cast into a diameter of (10 mm) and height of (20 mm) billet by steel mold. After that, the Al-0.5 % graphene rod was cold rolling at room temperature in a (10 mm) diameter rod form into a (3.5 mm) diameter wire. Both the electrical conductivity and tensile strength of alloys improved by cold rolling+ artificial aging treatment. The improvement of electrical conductivity of (B1) alloy is (8.9%) comparing with (A as cast) alloy, while the improvement in tensile strength of (B1) alloy compared with (A) alloy is (168.6%). Raman spectroscopy was carried out in order to indicate the number of graphene layers of the prepared samples, also to give good data about the structure of the prepared samples. FESEM studies showed a highly dimpled structure, characteristic of ductile failure. The results show that electrical conductivity and tensile strength are improved by the addition of graphene.