Papers by Author: Se Joong Yoon

Abstract: The influence of relative density on the thermal stability of CNTs-dispersed Al2O3 nanocomposites has been investigated by using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). TGA revealed that the onset temperature for weight loss increased with an increasing sintering temperature and CNT content. By taking account of the XRD and SEM results, it is suggested that the weight loss is caused by a decomposition of CNTs phase by oxidative atmosphere. The difference in thermal stability was explained by the porosity effect on the oxidation and decomposition behavior of CNTs, because the open pores promote the chemical reaction and gas flow of reactants.

Abstract: The microstructure and mechanical properties including wear resistance of Al2O3-based nanocomposites with 5 vol% of Cu and Ni-Co dispersions were investigated. Al2O3/Cu and Al2O3/ Ni-Co nanocomposites were fabricated by hydrogen reduction and sintering process using metal oxide and metal nitrates. The composites showed homogeneous microstructures with nano-sized metal dispersions and enhanced fracture strength and toughness compared with monolithic Al2O3. In particular, high toughness and hardness were measured for the Al2O3/Ni-Co nanocomposite consolidated by PECS. A minimum wear coefficient of 2.33 x 10-5 mm3/Nm was obtained for the Al2O3/Ni-Co nanocomposite, while the monolithic Al2O3 showed a value of 2.0 x 10-5 mm3/Nm. Wear behavior is discussed in terms of microstructure and mechanical properties of the nanocomposites.

Abstract: The reduction behavior of Al2O3/CuO powder mixtures, prepared from Al2O3/CuO or Al2O3/Cu-nitrate, was investigated by using thermogravimetry and hygrometry. Also, the influence of powder characteristics on the microstructure and properties of hot-pressed composites is analyzed. It was found that the hydrogen reduction process of nano-sized oxide particles and properties of sintered composites strongly depends on their distribution and size in composite powder. The formation mechanisms of nano-sized Cu dispersions are discussed based on the powder characteristics and reduction kinetics. In addition, the dependence of the microstructure and mechanical properties of hot-pressed composites on powder characteristics is discussed in terms of the initial size and distribution of Cu particles.