Al/Al2O3 Nano-Composite Produced by ECAP

Metal matrix nanocomposites have been produced by powder metallurgy route. Al and nano-Al2O3 powders were grinded through high energy ball milling. Then, the composite powders were sintered by Equal Channel Angular Pressing (ECAP). 12 ECAP passes were carried out in order to improve the dispersion of the hard particles. SEM analysis was performed to investigate the distribution of the ceramic nanoparticles within the matrix. Hardness tests were executed to evaluate the mechanical behavior of the nanocomposites. Finally, mechanical strength values obtained by numerical models were compared with those estimated from hardness measurements. High energy ball milling followed by ECAP process revealed to be a suitable route for the production of metal matrix composites reinforced with well dispersed nanoparticles.