Production of Al nanocomposite reinforced by Fe–Al intermetallic, Al4C3 and nano-Al2O3 particles using wet milling in toluene

Al matrix nanocomposites were produced by wet milling of Al and nano-alumina powders in a toluene media. X-ray diffraction patterns, inductively coupled plasma, carbon measurement analysis and scanning electron microscopy show that impurities introduced by decomposition of toluene and abrasion of balls and vials are uniformly dispersed in the Al matrix as Al4C3 and Fe–Al intermetallic particles. Though producing homogenous nanocomposites, these second phase particles seem to have a retarding effect on densification of nanocomposite powders.

► Production of Al nanocomposite reinforced by Fe–Al intermetallic, Al4C3 and nano-Al2O3 particles using wet milling in toluene. ► Production of Al4C3 particles from mechanochemical reaction of Al with PCA. ► Effect of second phase particles on sintering.