Effect of Graphene Reinforcement on the Mechanical Properties of Aluminium 6061 Nanocomposite Prepared by Stir Casting Method

Aluminium based nanocomposites are the new generation of composites due to their attractive properties like high ductility, high conductivity, light weight and high strength to weight ratio. Also the only recognized two dimensional material in the world, Graphene, has encouraged irresistible responses in the field of research due to its unexpected potential in the form of reinforced composites. Graphene having properties such as strength (tensile strength ≈ 130 GPa) and less density. But various problem occurred while it is used as a reinforcement like homogenous dispersion and clusters formation which causes decrease in mechanical strength. In the current research work, Effect of Graphene reinforcement compared to individual on mechanical properties of Aluminium 6061 nanocomposites have been planned to be evaluated. Micro hardness, tensile and microstructure analysis are to be analyzed for the developed nanocomposite. The reinforcement material is selected as Graphene. For the dispersion of the reinforcement into the aqueous solution containing ultrasonic liquid processor is employed. The first step involved the dispersion of a fixed weight % of Graphene (0.1 %, 0.3 %, & 0.6 %) in an acetone solvent. After sonication Stir casting method is employ to fabricate Aluminium metal matrix composites reinforced with graphene. Further tensile test, hardness test and SEM observation were conducted for characterization of the specimens.