Particle dynamics during the direct energy deposition processing of metal matrix nanocomposites with site-specific properties

All the published studies demonstrating the benefit of metal matrix nanocomposites produced by additive manufacturing involve the pre-mixing of the matrix powders with the nanoparticles to produce one single feedstock leading thus to a uniform material response. We propose a unique and original alternative where the reinforcement nanoparticles and the metal matrix powders are separately controlled and fed into the processing nozzle. This new approach offers the ability to produce 3D materials with site-specific properties by injecting nanoparticles only at desired location with the possibility to vary the nature and content of the nanoparticles. To address this site-specific control of the material performances using the direct energy deposition additive manufacturing approach, the dynamics of the particles has to be understood and controlled. Here, we will investigate thow the nanoparticles are penetrating and moving into the liquid metal.