Effects of various fabrication techniques on the mechanical characteristics of metal matrix composites: a review

ABSTRACT

Metal matrix composites (MMCs) provide a good combination of qualities that monolithic materials find difficult to achieve, such as a high strength-to-weight ratio, a low thermal expansion coefficient, strong wear, abrasion resistance etc. The manufacturing process, the matrix, and the reinforcement, all play a role in the MMCs’. Compared to mono composites using several reinforcements, hybrid MMCs exhibit improved property combinations. Surface MMCs improved their bulk toughness and ductility while also acquiring enhanced surface characteristics. Both liquid-state and solid-state processes were used to create MMCs. The main problems with MMC fabrication, which degrade the characteristics of the material, include wettability, low densification, particle agglomeration, and unwanted chemical interactions between the matrix and reinforcements. By utilizing various fabrication approaches, extensive research has been done in the domain of aluminum and magnesium-based MMCs and advancements have been made in obtaining the requisite material properties. The easiest and least expensive way for making MMCs is liquid-state processing stir casting. To get around the restrictions of liquid-state processing, solid-state processing was applied below the melting temperature of the matrix. This review was succinct regarding the various MMC fabrication techniques as well as the role reinforcements played in the creation of advanced composite materials.

KEYWORDS:

• Lightweight
• metal matrix composite
• fabrication technique
• reinforcement
• liquid state processing
• solid state processing

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).