Work

Aluminum Nanocomposites with Nickel and Carbon Nanotubes Via Gravity Die Casting

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Aluminum-based nanocomposites exhibit enhanced mechanical properties along with improved thermal and electrical conductivity. However, incorporating carbon nanotubes (CNTs) into aluminum via gravity die casting remains a challenge. This study investigates the fabrication of aluminum nanocomposites via traditional casting, integrating nickel powder and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) pre-treated with isopropyl alcohol and hydrogen peroxide to improve particle adhesion to the matrix. The nanostructured compounds were then incorporated into the aluminum matrix via gravity die casting. The results showed that the addition of nickel powder and CNTs refined the grains and promoted significant improvements in electrical and mechanical properties, with increases of 18% and 7%, respectively, for 0.2 wt.% Ni and 0.075 wt.% MWCNTs, when compared with commercial electroconductive aluminum. Consistent increases in hardness and ultimate tensile strength were observed, along with gains in elongation in most compositions. However, occasional reductions in yield strength and elongation indicate that the effects are not universal but depend on composition and CNT dispersion. Overall, the developed nanostructured alloys exhibited superior performance compared with commercial electroconductive aluminum, combining improved electrical and mechanical properties.

Source: Materials Research

DOI: 10.1590/1980-5373-mr-2025-0414