Investigation of Mechanical Behavior of CNT Reinforced A356 Nano-Composites

Abstract

The A356 aluminum alloy is commonly utilized in several industries due to its excellent properties, including castability, weldability, and corrosion resistance. However, its application is limited in more demanding environments, as its strength and wear resistance are not sufficient. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) possess exceptional strength, stiffness, and low weight, making them suitable reinforcements for A356. This research examines how the addition of CNTs affects the microstructure and mechanical properties of A356 nanocomposites.

Multiwall Carbon Nanotubes (MWCNT) are capable of improving material characteristics when reinforced in soft and low-strength materials. The primary limitation in utilizing Al alloy A356  in medium to heavy-stress applications such as automobiles, defense, transportation, and aerospace is its low hardness and strength. To overcome this deficiency, Multiwall Carbon Nanotubes (MWCNT) reinforced A356 matrix nanocomposite (AMNC) was successfully fabricated using a machined aluminum stir casting furnace. MWCNT nanoparticles in concentrations of 0.5% ,1%,1.5% were reinforced in the A356 matrix, and the effects on mechanical behavior were investigated using hardness, and tensile testing methods.

The mechanical properties results showed an enhancement in tensile strength (by 34.83%), hardness (by 16.08%), and yield stress (by 22.05%) with the reinforcement of MWCNT over the base alloy A356. It was observed that the nano size of MWCNT particles, the quantity of reinforcement and the stir casting process were effective factors on the mechanical properties enhancement.