Effect of multiwalled carbon nanotubes on densification behaviour of multiwalled carbon nanotube and fly ash reinforced aluminium composites

Abstract The densification and compression behaviour of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) and flyash (FA) reinforced composites fabricated by powder metallurgy method were analysed. MWCNTs (0.25,0.5,0.75 wt%) and FA (4 wt%) were blended with aluminium matrix using ball milling technique and compacted at loads of 100,120 and 140 kN and sintered at 500 °C for 6 h under argon atmosphere. Experimental results show that density and hardness increased with the compaction pressure. Microstructural observations revealed good bonding between particles. Compression strength test revealed improved compression properties over unreinforced matrix material.