Mechanical and magnetic properties of alumina/nickel nanocomposites prepared by pulse electric current sintering

Abstract

Al2O3/5 vol%Ni nanocomposite materials were fabricated by pulse electric current sintering (PECS) to achieve suitable microstructures. Their mechanical and magnetic properties were investigated and related to microstructure developments. Rapid densification of nanocomposites and various microstructures was accomplished by controlling PECS temperatures. Microstructures affected mechanical properties such as fracture strength, fracture toughness and hardness. Mechanical properties of Al2O3 were improved by Ni; fine dispersion into Al2O3 matrix improves changes in various ferromagnetic properties.