Study of Carbon Nanotubes on Wear Performance of Aluminum Matrix Composites by Friction Stir Processing

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) reinforced Al matrix composites were prepared by friction stir processing (FSP). The effect of CNTs content on the wearing performance and hardness of Al matrix composites was studied. Results show that CNTs reinforced Al matrix composites by FSP are to create a good dispersion of the CNTs in the matrix and to achieve a good combination with the matrix. The interface of CNTs and pure aluminum matrix is smooth, no defects and is one kind of mechanical bonding interface. There are a large number of dislocations. CNTs can strengthen the matrix composites effectively and obviously improve the hardness of the composites. With increasing CNTs content, CNTs can also improve the wear performance of the matrix composites.