Using microwaves to synthesize pure aluminum and metastable Al/Cu nanocomposites with superior properties

The processing of aluminum using powder metallurgy techniques is a challenging task due to the presence of thin oxide films on the surface of the metal particles which prevent strong bonding between particles during sintering. In this study, an innovative hybrid microwave sintering technique is utilized to process pure aluminum and Al/Cu nanocomposites without the need of any protective atmosphere. Hybrid microwave sintering involves the hearing of aluminum compacts using both microwave energy and radiant heating. Significant savings in time and energy can be achieved using the fabrication methodology. Results revealed that processing methodology used in this study provides a simple and inexpensive option to existing processing methodologies to synthesize pure Al and Al/Cu nanocomposites with superior combination of properties. (C) 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.