Effect of the interface layer on the mechanical behavior of TiO2 nanoparticle reinforced aluminum matrix composites

The interface reaction and its effect on the mechanical properties have been experimentally studied for aluminum-based composites reinforced with titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2). Aluminum-based composites containing TiO2 nanoparticles (20 nm in size) are developed by hot-rolling the ball-milled powder. High chemical potential energy of the nanoparticles induces the fast formation of the interface layer during the heat treatment process, and high yield stress of 514 MPa in a composite containing 5 vol.% TiO2 nanoparticles can be achieved. Furthermore, dislocations are emitted at the nanoparticle/matrix interface during deformation due to the high stress concentration. This study can provide useful insights for the design of metal-matrix composites.