Experimental investigation on mechanical and tribological behaviour of surfactant coated multi-walled carbon nano tubes reinforced aluminium 6065-silicon metal matrix composite

Abstract

Metal matrix composites are widely preferred in engineering applications because of its enhanced properties as compared to base materials. Carbon nanotubes have evolved to be an excellent reinforced material to aluminium alloy metal matrix composites (MMCs). However, CNTs tend to agglomerate which further affect the properties of the composite materials. Obtaining agglomeration free composites is a challenging task and needs to be studied in the present scenario. Surface modification of the nanoparticles is one of the methods which would reduce the agglomeration problem. Hence, emphasis in this work is made on a coating of CNTs using sodium dedosile sulphate (SDS). In the present appraisal, SDS coated CNTs reinforced Al6065-Si base metal was fabricated by stir casting process. The weight percentage of the CNT is varied from 0.5 to 4 wt.% for preparation of test specimens. This paper focuses on experimental study of mechanical and tribological behavior of composites such as compressive strength, hardness, tensile strength and abrasive strength for different wt.% of CNTs. Microstructure of the composites is studied using FESEM apparatus. The experimental result shows good dispersion stability with increase in hardness, tensile strength and reduced wear loss of the CNTs reinforced Al-6065-Si.