Novel carbon nanotubes-metal-ceramic nanocomposite powders and dense materi
als have been prepared and their microstructure and mechanical properties h
ave been investigated. After a brief review on the structure, synthesis and
physical properties of carbon nanotubes, we describe an original catalytic
method that produces ceramic-matrix composite powders that contain in situ
grown nanotubes. The synthesis parameters that favour the obtention of ver
y high quantities of nanotubes are discussed. The quality of the nanotubes
is also addressed. The microstructure and mechanical properties of the mate
rials prepared by hot-pressing of these powders are presented. The influenc
e of carbon nanotubes in such composites is discussed in view of potential
applications. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd and Techna S.r.l. All rights re
served.