The effect of polymeric surfactant content on the mechanical properties of Al/GNP nanocomposites

Graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) are ideal reinforcements for improving the mechanical properties of aluminum-based matrices due to their outstanding properties. However, it essentially depends on their uniform dispersion in the matrix. In this study, the challenge of uniform dispersion of graphene was performed by functionalizing the non-covalent surface and sonication of GNPs applying non-ionic polymeric ethyl cellulose (EC) surfactant, in which a colloidal mixture was provided with Al powder and graphene, followed by sintering at 620 °C and consolidation. The density and mechanical properties of nanocomposite specimens were investigated and compared with a non-surfactant-assisted Al/GNP nanocomposite. The results showed that GNPs/Al specimen prepared by 1.5% (wt/vol) of surfactant and 0.5 wt% GNPs showed the highest hardness and reduced wear rate compared to non-surfactant-assisted Al/GNPs sample. Besides, the GNPs content was investigated and the optimum amount was found to be 0.5 wt%.