Microstructures and mechanical properties of carbon nanotubes reinforced pure aluminum composites synthesized by spark plasma sintering and hot rolling

In this study, flat products of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) reinforced pure aluminum (Al) composites were fabricated by spark plasma sintering and hot rolling. The effects of sintering temperature and CNTs content on the microstructures and mechanical properties of the composites were investigated. It has been shown that the composite reinforced by 0.75 vol% CNTs and sintered at 630 °C has the best comprehensive mechanical properties, due to the combined positive effects of the good Al-CNTs interfacial bonding, full densification of the composite and the uniform dispersion of the CNTs. It has been found that the load transfer strengthening and dispersion strengthening of CNTs are the dominant strengthening mechanisms in the composites. The study provides a guidance for manufacturing the flat products of Al/CNTs composites with high strength and good ductility.