Enhanced mechanical properties of carbon nanotube-reinforced magnesium composites with zirconia fabricated by spark plasma sintering

Abstract

This study aims to enhance carbon nanotube (CNT)-reinforced magnesium (Mg) matrix composites fabricated by spark plasma sintering (SPS). Ultrasonic treatment with organic solvent (DMAc) and dispersant (K 2 CO 3 ) were used for the processes to make each CNT apart. Nano-order ceramic powders of zirconia (ZrO 2 ) were found to be effective to keep uniform dispersion of CNT in Mg matrix. Low melting point metals such as Sn were added to fill voids and cracks in the composites. Post-SPS rolling was also employed aiming to improve the microstructures. The fabricated CNT-reinforced Mg composites were investigated on mechanical properties such as hardness and three-point bending strength to be related to the microstructures.