Gradient Al2O3-Ni composites for aggressive substance transport: a novel approach using centrifugal gel casting
Justyna Zygmuntowicz, Joanna Tańska, Paulina Wiecińska, Paulina Piotrkiewicz, Katarzyna Konopka, Mikołaj Szafran, Marcin Wachowski, Bartosz Michalski, Waldemar Kaszuwara
Quarterly No. 2, 2025 pages 144-156
DOI: https://doi.org/10.62753/ctp.2025.09.2.2
keywords: HEA, composites, Al2O3-Ni, gel casting, FGM
abstract This study focuses on the development and characterization of Al2O3-Ni composite materials designed for use in environments where high corrosion resistance and mechanical strength are critical. The composites were formed using the centrifugal gel casting method to produce pipes with a gradient structure. The inner layer of the pipes consisted mainly of Al2O3, while the outer layer incorporated nickel particles. Rheological, thermogravimetric, and microstructural analyses were conducted to optimize the composite's formulation and processing conditions. The results showed that a monomer content of 3% by weight of 2-hydroxyethyl acrylate (HEA) provided an optimal balance between workability and polymer network formation. Corrosion tests revealed that while the alumina-rich inner layer exhibited good chemical resistance, the presence of nickel particles on the surface led to localized corrosion, particularly in acidic environments. The findings indicate that further refinement of the casting process is necessary to improve the distribution of the nickel particles and enhance the material's overall corrosion resistance.