Synthesis of WS2/CNT hybrid nanoparticles for fabrication of hybrid aluminum matrix nanocomposite

In this study, a simple, safe and cost-effective method was developed for fabricating the tungsten disulfide/carbon nanotube (WS2/CNT) hybrid nanoparticles via chemical vapor deposition (CVD) process. Hybrid nanoparticles used for reinforcing the aluminum matrix. The hybrid nanocomposites were prepared by powder metallurgy processing and consolidated by the Hot-Pressing process. The chemical composition and morphology of the WS2/CNT hybrid particles were studied by x-ray diffraction (XRD), filed emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), Raman spectra, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and thermo gravimetric analysis (TGA). The results proved that the uniform, pure and tubular WS2/CNT hybrid nanoparticles were produced and WS2 nanoparticles were decorated the CNT surface successfully. Optical microscopy (OM) and FESEM used for characterization of the microstructure of hybrid nanocomposite, indicate a good distribution of hybrid nanoparticles in the aluminum matrix. Maximum values of relative density, hardness and compressive strength were measured for sample with WS2/CNT ratio of 1:1. A relative density of more than 99.5% was obtained for this sample. Hardness and compressive strength were improved by 43% and 60% compared with pure aluminum respectively.