The role of interfacial reaction on dynamic mechanical response in graphene nano-flake/Ti composites

Abstract For the purpose of relating microscopic interface characteristics to macroscopic dynamic properties in carbon/metal nano-composites, the graphene nano-flakes (GNFs)/Ti composites were fabricated by spark plasma sintering (SPS) and subsequent 723K, 923K, 23K and 1323K hot-rolling. The dynamic properties (∼3000s −1 ) and interface failure processes were investigated by introducing Spilt Hopkinson Pressure Bar (SHPB) and stop-ring technology. A superior strength without losing ductility was realized by 1123K as-rolled GNFs/Ti composite. Observations provide new insights into the unique and effective load transfer process of interfacial TiC nano-layer on partially reacted GNFs, which appears to be responsible for the extraordinary dynamic property.