One-Step Synthesis and Characterization of a Nanocomposite Based on Carbon Nanotubes/Aluminum and Its Reinforcement Effect on the Metal Matrix

The nanocomposite based on carbon nanotubes/aluminum （CNT/Al） was one-step prepared by the DC arc discharge method under an argon/acetone mixed atmosphere. Synthesis was performed by arc plasma on a pure graphite rod, filled by aluminum powder as an anode and aluminum plate as a cathode. Discharge conditions of 85 A and 20 V were used at a pressure range of 375 to 750 Torr. The CNT/Al was characterized by Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy; Transmission Electron Microscopy; Laser Diffraction Particle Size Analysis; X-Ray Diffraction; Raman Spectroscopy; Thermogravimetric Analysis; and, its reinforcement effect of the CNTs on the aluminum matrix was measured by Vickers microhardness test. This nanocomposite shows agglomerates of multiwalled carbon nanotubes filled with Al4C3 and blended with aluminum particles; moreover, in the nanocomposites was found a hardness increase of 40% for nanocomposites with 1.0 wt.% of CNT/Al.