Influence of the Interface of Carbon Nanotube-Reinforced Aluminum Matrix Composites on the Mechanical Properties – a Review

Abstract

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are a good reinforcement for metal matrix composite materials; they can significantly improve the mechanical, wear-resistant, and heat-resistant properties of the materials. Due to the differences in the atomic structure and surface energy between CNTs and aluminum-based materials, the bonding interface effect that occurs when nanoscale CNTs are added to the aluminum alloy system as a reinforcement becomes more pronounced, and the bonding interface is important for the material mechanical performance. Firstly, a comparative analysis of the interface connection methods of four CNT-reinforced aluminum matrix composites is provided, and the combination mechanisms of various interface connection methods are explained. Secondly, the influence of several factors, including the preparation method and process as well as the state of the material, on the material bonding interface during the composite preparation process is analyzed. Furthermore, it is explained how the state of the bonding interface can be optimized by adopting appropriate technical and technological means. Through the study of the interface of CNT-reinforced aluminum-based composite materials, the influence of the interface on the overall performance of the composite material is determined, which provides directions and ideas for the preparation of future high-performance CNT-reinforced aluminum-based composite materials.

Keywords

• aluminum matrix composites
• carbon nanotubes
• bonding interface
• mechanical properties