Effect of flake reinforcement on mechanical properties of AA 6061 nano composite with secondary nano platelet-Graphene processed through powder metallurgy

• Main Authors: Prashantha Kumar, H.G., Anthony Xavior, M., Joel, Ashwath.P., Kaustav Chakraborty, J.
• Format: Conference Proceeding
• Language: English
• Subjects: Graphene; Microhardness; Nano composites; Powder metallurgy (PM)
• ISSN: 2214-7853; 2214-7853
• DOI: 10.1016/j.matpr.2017.11.318

The only established 2-Dimentional material in the world, Graphene, has incited overwhelming responses in the field of research due to its extraordinary potential in the form of reinforced composites. Graphene’s stand-out properties are its inherent strength (tensile strength – 130 GPa, specific surface area - 2630m2 g−1 For all temperatures) and low density compare to carbon nanotube (CNT). But various challenges when subjected to Graphene reinforcement, the crack initiation and propagation is manly rely on aligned or random, cluster or individually exfoliated of the added secondary nano reinforcements have been among the major concern which would possible to meet challenging needs for the specific designs. In the current research work, Effect of Graphene reinforcement compare to individual on mechanical properties of AA 6061 nanocomposites have been evaluated. Micro hardness, XRD and flexural properties are analysed for the developed composite. On the basis of results obtained from analysis (fracture analysis through AFM), the possible sites and extents of crack initiation and failure of all the samples are probed and viable conclusions are drawn. It is expected to added nano reinforcement are aligned along the direction of load during processing which further inhibit the crack resistance and propagation, further to enhancing the mechanical properties.