Novel nanoprocessing route for bulk graphene nanoplatelets reinforced metal matrix nanocomposites

It is extremely difficult to effectively incorporate and disperse graphene nanoplatelets into metal matrix by traditional processing methods. In this paper, a novel nanoprocessing method that combines liquid state ultrasonic processing and solid state stirring is presented for fabrication of bulk metal graphene nanoplatelets nanocomposites. The obtained graphene nanoplatelets reinforced Mg-based metal matrix nanocomposite shows a uniform dispersion of graphene nanoplatelets and dramatically enhanced properties. This novel nanoprocessing route has great potential for the production of ultrahigh performance metal matrix nanocomposites. (C) 2012 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.