Interfacial Investigations and Process Innovations in the Near Net-Shape Manufacturing of Aluminum/Ceramic Nanocomposites

本研究项目的目标是生产一种新型的铝基纳米复合材料，具有优异的结构和耐腐蚀性能，可以快速均匀地制造。纳米复合材料是通过首先使用高能球磨（机械磨损）生产铝和莫来石纳米颗粒形成的。然后使用热等静压（HIP）将纳米晶粉末加工成接近净形状的复合材料。此外，正在研究如何结合设计创新来提高这些纳米复合材料形成的速度和均匀性。具体任务包括开发和评估一种流化床工艺，用于连续研磨纳米晶体材料。氧化铣削将被纳入流化床工艺，以形成纳米晶铝和陶瓷的紧密混合物，然后可以通过HIP进一步处理。对纳米莫来石增强纳米晶铝基复合材料的界面、力学和腐蚀性能进行表征。利用纳米压痕和传统的拉伸测试来表征材料的力学性能。将进行腐蚀研究，以确定纳米结晶度对耐化学性的影响。该项目将为参与路易斯安那州少数民族参与联盟（LAMP）的本科生提供研究经验。预计来自迪拉德，南方大学和泽维尔大学的LAMP学生将参与并鼓励他们攻读更高的学位。

The goal of this research project is to produce a novel class of aluminum matrix nanocomposites with superior structural and corrosion-resistance properties that can be manufactured rapidly and uniformly. The nanocomposites are formed by first producing aluminum and mullite nanoparticles using high-energy ball milling (mechanical attrition). The nanocrystalline powders are then processed to near net-shape composites using Hot Isostatic Pressing (HIP). Further, the incorporation of design innovations to improve the speed and uniformity with which these nanocomposites are formed are being investigated. Specific tasks include the development and evaluation of a fluidized bed process for the continuous milling of nanocrystalline materials. Oxidative milling will be incorporated in the fluidized bed process in order to form intimate mixtures of nanocrystalline aluminum and ceramic, that can then be further processed via HIP. Characterization of the interfacial, mechanical, and corrosion properties of nanocrystalline mullite-reinforced nanocrystalline aluminum matrix composites will be conducted. Mechanical properties are to be characterized using nanoindentation and traditional tensile testing. Corrosion studies will be carried out to determine the effects of nanocrystallinity on chemical resistance. The project will provide research experiences for undergraduates involved in the Louisiana Alliance for Minority Participation (LAMP). It is expected that LAMP students from Dillard, Southern and Xavier will participate and be encouraged to pursue advanced degrees.