Processing of Boron Nitride Nanotubes Reinforced Aluminum Matrix Composite

Aluminum and its alloys are one of the most favored metal-based materials for engineering applications that require lightweight materials. On the other hand, composites are getting more preferable for different kinds of applications recently. Boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs) are one of the excellent reinforcement materials for aluminum and its alloys. To enhance mechanical properties of aluminum, BNNTs can be added with different processes. BNNT reinforced aluminum matrix composites also demonstrate extraordinary radiation shielding properties. This study consists of BNNT reinforced aluminum matrix composite production performed by casting method. Since wetting of BNNT in liquid aluminum is an obstacle for casting, various casting techniques were performed to distribute homogeneously in liquid aluminum. Different methods were investigated in an aim to incorporate BNNT into liquid method as reinforcement. It was found that UTS was increased by 20% and elongation at fracture was increased by 170% when BNNT was preheated at 800 degrees C for 30 minutes.