Carbon nanotube evolution in aluminum matrix during composite fabrication process

In this study, carbon nanotube (CNT) reinforced aluminum (Al) composite was fabricated by powder metallurgy (P/M) technique and the evolution of CNTs within the matrix were traced, characterized and discussed. It was found that the separation of CNTs was affected by both the powder mixing operation as well as the secondary processing. CNTs were damaged during mechanical powder mixing and sintering process, whilst the graphitic structures were not damaged during the secondary processing. In addition, CNTs were subjected to substantial compression stress in both powder mixing and sintering process.