Effects of processing conditions on microstructure, electrical conductivity and mechanical properties of MWCNT/alumina composites prepared by flocculation

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Abstract

MWCNT/alumina composites were prepared by a flocculation method combined with acid treatment of the MWCNTs and spark plasma sintering. The effects of varying the processing conditions, namely the acid treatment temperature (50-80 °C), MWCNT content (0-10 vol.%) and sintering temperature (1200-1600°C) on the composites' microstructure, electrical conductivity and mechanical properties were investigated. This found that flocculation processing brings about a good dispersibility of the MWCNTs, especially with higher acid treatment temperature, which enhances their reinforcing and grain refining effect. When combined with a low sintering temperature, this significantly improves the mechanical properties of the composites.As a result, a composite prepared using a sintering temperature of 1200°C and an acid treatment temperature of 80°C exhibited a fracture toughness greater than that of a monolithic alumina, even with a MWCNT content as high as 10 vol.%.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)3903-3908
Number of pages6
JournalJournal of the European Ceramic Society
Volume35
Issue number14
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2015 Nov 1

Keywords

  • Alumina
  • Carbon nanotubes
  • Flocculation method
  • Mechanical properties
  • Microstructure

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