Through dispersing graphene by ultrasonic dispersion and mechanical stirring

graphene reinforced aluminum matrix composites were prepared by spark plasma sintering. Effects of graphene sheet diameter on the microstructure and properties of the aluminum matrix composites were analyzed. The results indicate that the copper particles on the surface of copper plated graphene are diffused into the aluminum matrix

strengthening the interface bonding between graphene and aluminum

leading to the better bonding between graphene with larger sheet diameter and aluminum matrix. The tensile strength of the composites reinforced by graphene with different sheet diameters is similar

and graphene with larger sheet diameter is contributed to achieving the better balance of strength and plasticity

which however

has better enhancement effect on the conductivity of the composite

while graphene with two different sheet diameters has no obvious enhancement effect on the thermal conductivity of the composite. Graphene with larger sheet diameter has better effect on the comprehensive properties of the aluminum matrix composites.