Ultrasonic Nano-dispersion Technique of Aluminium alloy and Carbon Nano-tubes (CNT) for Automotive Parts Applications

The use of carbon nano-tubes (CNTs) in nanotechnology and leading industries is of extreme importance due to its various applications. One such application is producing Aluminum reinforced nano-composites which may find applications in the aerospace and automobile industries. Additions of high modulus nano particles to Aluminum alloys offer the potential to develop a lightweight composite with high mechanical properties. It is extremely difficult to disperse nano sized ceramic particles uniformly in molten metal. In order to investigate the effect of selected nano-materials (CNTs) on the microstructure and mechanical properties of composite, a new method is used to avoid agglomeration and segregation of particles. The microstructure of the composites is investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Experimental results show a nearly uniform distribution and good dispersion of the nano-particles within the Al matrix, although some of small agglomeration found. Hardness, Flexural strength and tensile strength are enhanced by incorporation of nano materials into matrix. The enhancement in values of hardness, flexural strength and tensile strength observed in this experiment is due to small particle size and good distribution of the particles, which was confirmed by SEM pictures.