Control of Al4C3 phase formation in aluminum matrix composites reinforced with carbon nanostructures

This brief overview provides a systematic organization of the known thermodynamic data to justify approaches for inhibiting the in-situ formation of Al4C3 reaction between carbon nanotubes and aluminum matrix in composite materials. Based on the literature data, the Gibbs free energy value at a temperature of 600 ºC is calculated for aluminum and carbon interactions with various substances. Approaches for inhibiting the interfacial reaction and the formation of the Al4C3 phase in aluminum matrix composites are proposed by controlling their composition. These approaches involve alloying the matrix with different elements and ex-situ modification of carbon nanotubes through the creation of coatings with varying compositions on their surface prior to their incorporation into the matrix. Literature data on the effect of the interfacial layer on the properties of Al/CNT composites are presented. The promising outlook of the interface design strategy by controlling the type and thickness of the interphase layer for the engineering of composites with improved properties is shown. This approach can be useful in the development of aluminum matrix composite materials with balanced properties for a wide range of applications.