Effect of CNT content on microstructure and tribological properties of CNTs/AlSi10Mg composites by LPBF

• LPBF successfully fabricates CNTs/AlSi10Mg composites with up to 2.0 wt.% CNTs, achieving uniform dispersion below 2.0 wt.%. • Optimal hardness of 143.3 HV is achieved at 1.0 wt.% CNTs and a laser scan speed of 1,300 mm/s. • Adding 2.0 wt.% CNTs reduces the coefficient of friction by ~14% and wear rate by ~30% compared to unreinforced AlSi10Mg. • CNTs refine the microstructure and enhance strengthening via Orowan mechanism and Hall-Petch effect, improving tribological performance.