Preparation and consolidation of alumina/graphene composite powders

Abstract

Alumina/graphene composite powders were produced by ball milling alumina and graphite for different times. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was used to characterize the obtained powders. 3-4 nm graphene sheets were produced after 30h milling time. Accelerative effect of alumina to ball milling was also studied. Graphene reinforced alumina-based composites were fabricated by spark plasma sintering (SPS) technique from as-prepared powders. Microstructural observation of fracture surface was conducted using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). It was found that adding graphene would hinder grain growth of alumina, making much finer particles. ©2009 The Japan Institute of Metals.