Effect of Graphene Nanoplatelets on the Mechanical Properties of Aluminium Metal Matrix Composite

Abstract Unique properties of graphene have generated immense scientific interest in the last decade. The superior mechanical properties of graphene make it a suitable reinforcement material in the production of metal matrix composites (MMC). In this work, Al-GNP composites are prepared through stir casting and the effect of addition of graphene on mechanical properties is studied. Powder metallurgy is incorporated into the procedure to enhance dispersion of graphene in the final stir casted composite. The current study shows that the addition of graphene nanoplatelets enhances the mechanical properties of the material. Compressive strength and hardness are observed to increase by 23.61 % and 24.65 % respectively in comparison to commercially pure Al. Further, microstructural analysis, elemental composition and phase studies are carried out using field emission scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersion X-ray spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction.