Abstract: Methods for large-scale additive manufacturing of high-strength boron nitride nanotubes (BNNT)/aluminum (Al) (e.g., reinforced Al alloy) metal matrix composites (MMCs) (BNNT/Al MMCs), as well as the BNNT/Al MMCs produced by the large-scale additive manufacturing methods, are provided. A combination of ultrasonication and spray drying techniques can produce good BNNT/Al alloy feedstock powders, which can be used in a cold spraying process.

Abstract: Methods for large-scale additive manufacturing of high-strength boron nitride nanotubes (BNNT)/aluminum (Al) (e.g., reinforced Al alloy) metal matrix composites (MMCs) (BNNT/Al MMCs), as well as the BNNT/Al MMCs produced by the large-scale additive manufacturing methods, are provided. A combination of ultrasonication and spray drying techniques can produce good BNNT/Al alloy feedstock powders, which can be used in a cold spraying process.

Abstract: Methods for fabricating high-strength aluminum-boron nitride nanotube (Al—BNNT) wires or wire feedstock from Al—BNNT composite raw materials by mechanical deformation using wire drawing and extrusion are provided, as well as large-scale, high-strength Al—BNNT composite components (e.g., with a length on the order of meters (m) and/or a mass on the order of hundreds of kilograms (kg)). The large-scale, high-strength Al—BNNT composite components can be made via wire-based additive manufacturing.

Abstract: Methods for large-scale additive manufacturing of high-strength boron nitride nanotubes (BNNT)/aluminum (Al) (e.g., reinforced Al alloy) metal matrix composites (MMCs) (BNNT/Al MMCs), as well as the BNNT/Al MMCs produced by the large-scale additive manufacturing methods, are provided. A combination of ultrasonication and spray drying techniques can produce good BNNT/Al alloy feedstock powders, which can be used in a cold spraying process.

Abstract: Methods for large-scale additive manufacturing of high-strength boron nitride nanotubes (BNNT) / aluminum (Al) (e.g., reinforced Al alloy) metal matrix composites (MMCs) (BNNT/A1 MMCs), as well as the BNNT/A1 MMCs produced by the large-scale additive manufacturing methods, are provided. A combination of ultrasonication and spray drying techniques can produce good BNNT/Al alloy feedstock powders, which can be used in a cold spraying process.

Abstract: Methods for fabricating high-strength aluminum-boron nitride nanotube (Al—BNNT) wires or wire feedstock from Al—BNNT composite raw materials by mechanical deformation using wire drawing and extrusion are provided, as well as large-scale, high-strength Al—BNNT composite components (e.g., with a length on the order of meters (m) and/or a mass on the order of hundreds of kilograms (kg)). The large-scale, high-strength Al—BNNT composite components can be made via wire-based additive manufacturing.

Abstract: Devices and methods to assist wire arc additive manufacturing (WAAM) are provided. A non-contact, multidirectional synchronized ultrasonic device can include multiple ultrasonic probes mounted on a nozzle of a WAAM robotic arm. The probes can include one normal probe and a plurality of lateral probes configured to rotate on a parabolic frame. The ultrasonic probe in the normal direction can act by its continual high-frequency oscillation in the arc plasma to enhance the arc push force, while the lateral probes can act on the shape of both sides of the deposit. The combined effect of the probes can generate ultrasonic waves and cavitation in the molten pool.

Abstract: Metal-nanoparticle composites, such as metal-boron nitride nanoparticle composites, and methods of manufacturing the same are provided. Ultrasonic casting techniques can be used to achieve uniform dispersion of nanoparticles, such as boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs) in a metal matrix, such as aluminum. The BNNTs can be incorporated into the melt of the metal, and ultrasonic treatment can then be applied.