Pool Volume Influence on Carbon Nanotube Dispersion in Cu-Cr Matrix by Wet Ball Milling

In this paper, the production of Cu-1wt%Cr-5wt%CNT nano-composites by wet milling process at three different levels of milling energy and two different pool volumes was investigated. The structural evolution and solid solution formation were evaluated by X-ray diffraction technique. The microstructure was characterized by scanning electron microscopy. The mechanical properties were also investigated by microhardness testing. The mean crystallite size was in the range of 44-94 nm depending on pool volume of milling medium and milling energy. It was found that wet milling at higher levels of milling energy and lower pool volumes of 10 ml can be a beneficial method of producing the nano-composite with the least damage introduction on homogeneously dispersed carbon nanotubes. Maximum hardness of 88 HV was obtained under optimum conditions.