Papers by Author: Seung Hwa Yoo

Abstract: Thermal behavior and microstructural characterization of the CNTs/Al2O3 nanocomposites with different relative densities were studied by TGA and SEM. The onset temperature for weight loss corresponded to a decomposition of CNTs in TGA increased with an increase of relative density. The activation energy for CNTs decomposition obtained by the Kissinger method increased with increasing relative density. The difference in thermal behavior was explained by the porosity effect on the oxidation and decomposition of CNTs.

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 electrical conductivity of CNTs dispersed Al2O3 nancomposites depending on the powder processing and CNTs content were demonstrated. The composite powders with homogeneous dispersion of CNTs could be synthesized by a catalytic route for direct formation of CNTs on nano-sized Fe dispersed Al2O3 powders. The sintered nanocomposite using the composite powder with directly synthesized CNTs showed homogeneous microstructure and enhanced elelctrical conductivity. The influence of powder processing on the properties of sintered nanocomposites was discussed by the observed microstructural features.

Abstract: CNTs/Fe/Al2O3 nanocomposites were prepared by thermal CVD and SPS methods. The dispersion of CNTs in the Fe/Al2O3 matrix were controlled by an attrition milling process. FESEM analysis revealed that the CNTs of 5 vol.% were homogeneously dispersed in the Fe/Al2O3. The effects of CNTs dispersion on the mechanical and electrical properties of the specimens were investigated. Fracture strength and electrical conductivity of 5 vol.% CNTs/Fe/Al2O3 specimen were measured at 641 MPa and 2.93
10-11 mS/m, whereas that of a 20 vol.% CNTs/Fe/Al2O3 specimen were 208 MPa and 8.46
10-7 mS/m, respectively. In comparison with an Al2O3 monolith, the specimen with 5 vol.% CNTs showed enhanced fracture strength and increased electrical conductivity.