Structural and mechanical properties of graphene reinforced aluminum matrix composites

Abstract

In this study, effect of sintering temperature on structural and mechanical properties of graphene reinforced aluminum matrix composites has been investigated. Initially, graphene reinforcement was prepared by oxidizing graphite powder to graphite oxide (GO) using Hummer's method followed by chemical reduction of graphite oxide using benzyl alcohol (BnOH). Graphene reinforced aluminum matrix composites were prepared by powder metallurgy process. X-ray diffraction pattern, density, microstructure, hardness and compressive strength of prepared samples have been investigated. XRD studies showed the presence of pure aluminum and graphene phase only. However, SEM studies showed dendrite microstructure indicating to the formation of Al4C3 phase due to reaction between aluminum and graphene particles. Density and hardness of the samples depend on the sintering temperature while compressive strength depends on the concentration of graphene reinforcement. Addition of graphene as reinforcement in aluminum matrix increases the strength of aluminum. Strength of the composite increases with increase in the percentage of graphene.