STTR Phase I: Hybrid Carbon Reinforced Ceramic Nanocomposites

This Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project will investigate coating carbon nanotubes (CNTs) using ALD NanoSolutions' patented atomic layer deposition on particles (Particle ALD) for use as improved filler materials for ceramic composites. The CNTs will be dispersed into a powdered ceramic, and the mixture will be coated with a nano-thick alumina film using ALD in a fluidized bed. The coating will ensure compatibility between the surfaces of the ceramic and the CNTs, allowing for even distribution of the CNTs throughout the matrix with less agglomeration and aggregation. The sintered composite will therefore be able to take better advantage of the high strength and stiffness of the CNTs, resulting in improved physical properties. Processing variables will be investigated on the small scale, and the most promising batch will be scaled up to ~1 kg of composite powder. Sintering of this material will be studied, and the physical properties of the resulting composite billets will be measured. The Phase II objectives will include more in-depth studies of the effect of the coated CNTs and their weight loading on the strength, adhesion, friction and wear properties of the composites. Successful completion of this Phase I will allow the strategies learned to be applied to other CNT applications that face similar material handling problems.