Nanomechanical characterization of a metal matrix composite reinforced with carbon nanotubes

• Published in: AIMS materials science Vol. 7; no. 1; pp. 33 - 45
• Main Authors: Duarte, Mateo, Benítez, Andrés, Gómez, Katiuska, Zuluaga D, Benjamín, Meza, Juan, Cardona-Maya, Yamile, S. Rudas, Juan, Isaza, César
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: AIMS Press 01.01.2020
• Subjects: atomic force microscopy; mechanical properties; metal matrix composites; nano-reinforcements; nanoindentation
• ISSN: 2372-0484; 2372-0484
• DOI: 10.3934/matersci.2020.1.33

A new technique for the manufacture metal matrix composites has recently been developed. This technique produces a structure of a metallic matrix banded structured-layers of multiwall carbon nanotubes by a diffusive processes. To understand the increase in the volumetric mechanical properties of the composite and the dispersion of the nano-reinforcement, a nanomechanical characterization was performed by nanoindentation and atomic force microscopy. From the mechanical tests performed, a stiffness and elastic modulus maps were made near the reinforced areas, then the dispersion of the nano-reinforcements and the homogeneity of the mechanical properties were accessed. The results showed an increase in the modulus of elasticity of up to 150%; and a good dispersion of the nano-reinforcements in the reinforced zone, which demonstrates the feasibility of the alternative manufacturing process for increasing the mechanical properties of the composite.