Bulk Al–Zn/Al2O3 nanocomposite prepared by reactive milling and hot pressing methods

In this study fabrication of bulk Al–Zn/Al2O3 metal matrix nanocomposite prepared by mechanical alloying and hot pressing were investigated. Aluminum and zinc oxide powder mixture was milled by a planetary ball mill and then hot pressed (HP) in a uniaxial die. After 60 h of milling the displacement reaction between aluminum and zinc oxide powders took place and Zn and Al2O3 phases produced. Hot pressing of the 60 h milled sample at 500 °C under 400 MPa led to a fully dense bulk Al–13.8 wt%Zn/5 vol%Al2O3 nanocomposite. The consolidated sample had a hardness value of 180 HV and was stable up to 400 °C. These results were compared with those obtained for Al–13.8 wt%Zn alloy.