Carbon Nanotube‐Reinforced Aluminum Matrix Composites

• Published in: Advanced engineering materials 2020-04, Vol.22 (4), p.n/a
• Main Authors: Mohammed, Sohail M. A. K., Chen, Daolun L.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: aluminum alloys; carbon nanotubes; mechanical properties; metal matrix composites; strengthening mechanisms
• ISSN: 1438-1656; 1527-2648
• DOI: 10.1002/adem.201901176

Herein, the investigations conducted in the area of aluminum (Al) matrix composites reinforced with carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are presented. The application of CNT reinforcement in Al alloys is driven by its exceptional chemical and mechanical properties. The critical issues in the processing techniques, challenges in the interfacial mechanisms between the Al matrix and CNTs, and strengthening effects due to the presence of reinforcements are reviewed. The mechanical properties of CNT/Al composites are found to be effectively enhanced with an addition of CNTs even at a small amount. The extent of strength improvements depends mainly on the dispersion of CNTs in the matrix and interfacial bonding between the matrix and CNTs. Limited theoretical modeling can predict the properties of CNT/Al composites to some extent, but without considering the detailed processing parameters. Based on the gaps identified here, future research directions are suggested, including the relationships between the processing parameters and micro‐ and nanostructures, and multiscale mechanical modeling and simulation, aiming to further understand the strengthening mechanisms and develop advanced CNT‐reinforced Al and other metal composites for critical engineering applications. Recent advancements in processes have paved the way for fabricating advanced metal matrix composites (MMCs). Carbon nanotubes (CNTs), being one of the strongest known materials, are increasingly used as reinforcement in MMCs due to their exciting prospects in nanotechnology applications. Herein, insights into recent developments in the processing techniques, strengthening mechanisms, and mechanical behavior of CNT‐reinforced aluminum composites are provided.