A critique on boron nitride nanotube reinforced metal matrix composites

Abstract

Boron Nitride Nanotubes (BNNTs), a 1D nanomaterial with extraordinary mechanical properties, are structurally like carbon nanotubes. BNNTs possess superior thermal stability of ∼900 °C, higher resistance to oxidation at elevated temperatures, and enhanced neutron shielding capacity. These benefits open a wider processing window for manufacturing BNNT-reinforced metal matrix composites (MMC) and hold promise for several structural applications, including radiation shielding. This critique presents the current status, challenges, and future scientific possibilities of BNNT-reinforced MMC. Particular emphasis is laid on the progress made in this area regarding the synthesis, manufacturing, and characterization of BNNT-MMCs to date. The challenges associated with various processing techniques, including additive manufacturing (AM), are discussed in the fabrication of BNNT-MMCs. The experimental mechanics and structure-property relationship modeling are examined in detail to establish the utilization of BNNT-reinforced MMCs. Additionally, prospective research areas with a huge untapped potential for BNNT-MMCs are suggested. The scientific framework behind these methods’ chronological development is analyzed, and a pathway for subsequent advancement is projected. By providing a comprehensive overview, this critique aims to facilitate further progress in BNNT-reinforced MMCs.

Keywords:

• Boron nitride nanotube
• Metal matrix composite
• Carbon nanotube
• High-temperature resistance
• Manufacturing
• Mechanical properties

Acknowledgment

The authors thank Dr. Roy Whitney of BNNT, LLC. for providing the BNNT samples. PN is grateful to the Florida International University (FIU) Graduate School for the Presidential Fellowship and the Dissertation Year Fellowship awards.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Notes

1 *text portion of sections 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 are reprinted with permission from the dissertation²⁸ and updated with recent literature. That portion of the dissertation is not published elsewhere.

Additional information

Funding

The authors acknowledge the Army Research Office (ARO) for Grant W911NF1910097 and Program Officer Dr. Michael Bakas. The authors gratefully acknowledge support from the DEVCOM - Army Research Laboratory through the W911NF2020256 grant.