Effect of T6 and T8 Ageing on the Mechanical and Microstructural Properties of Graphene-Reinforced AA2219 Composites for Hydrogen Storage Tank Inner Liner Applications

Parasuraman, B, Pazhani, A, Michael, AX, Pitchaimuthu, S and Batako, A ORCID: 0000-0002-4613-7067 (2025) Effect of T6 and T8 Ageing on the Mechanical and Microstructural Properties of Graphene-Reinforced AA2219 Composites for Hydrogen Storage Tank Inner Liner Applications. Journal of Composites Science, 9 (7).

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Abstract

This study examines the mechanical and microstructural properties of graphene-reinforced AA2219 composites developed for hydrogen storage tank inner liner applications. A novel processing route combining high-energy ball milling, ultrasonic-assisted stir casting, and squeeze casting was used to achieve homogeneous dispersion of 0.5 wt.% graphene nanoplatelets and minimise agglomeration. The composites were subjected to T6 and T8 ageing treatments to optimize their properties. Microstructural analysis revealed refined grains, uniform Al2Cu precipitate distribution, and stable graphene retention. Mechanical testing showed that the as-cast composite exhibited a UTS of 308.6 MPa with 13.68% elongation. After T6 treatment, the UTS increased to 353.6 MPa with an elongation of 11.24%. T8 treatment further improved the UTS to 371.5 MPa, with an elongation of 8.54%. Hardness improved by 46%, from 89.6 HV (as-cast) to 131.3 HV (T8). Fractography analysis indicated a shift from brittle to ductile fracture modes after heat treatment. The purpose of this work is to develop lightweight, high-strength composites for hydrogen storage applications. The novelty of this study lies in the integrated processing approach, which ensures uniform graphene dispersion and superior mechanical performance. The results demonstrate the suitability of these composites for advanced aerospace propulsion systems.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	40 Engineering; 4016 Materials Engineering; 7 Affordable and Clean Energy; 4016 Materials engineering
Subjects:	T Technology > TA Engineering (General). Civil engineering (General)
Divisions:	Engineering
Publisher:	MDPI
Date of acceptance:	24 June 2025
Date of first compliant Open Access:	20 August 2025
Date Deposited:	20 Aug 2025 14:58
Last Modified:	20 Aug 2025 15:00
DOI or ID number:	10.3390/jcs9070328
URI:	https://researchonline.ljmu.ac.uk/id/eprint/26965

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