Graphite nanoparticle dispersion in 7075 aluminum alloy by means of mechanical alloying

Dispersion of metallized graphite nanoparticle reinforcements in 7075 aluminum alloy (Al-7075) and composites were microstructurally and mechanically characterized. Al-7075-based composites were prepared by mechanical alloying in a high energy ball mill. Composites were cold compacted, sintered, and hot extruded in order to obtain samples for mechanical evaluation (hardness and tension). From a microstructural point of view, milling time and graphite concentration had an important effect on the refining sequence and mechanical properties of prepared composites. The results of tensile tests and hardness measurements show a significant increase in the maximum tensile strength and hardness values. (C) 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.