Manufacture of Nano-Sized Particle-Reinforced Metal Matrix Composites:A Review

Compared to the micro-sized particle-reinforced metal matrix composites, the nano-sized particle-reinforced metal matrix composites possess superior strength, ductility, and wear resistance, and they also exhibit good elevated temperature properties. Therefore, the nano-sized particle-reinforced metal matrix composites are the new potential material which could be applied in many industry fields. At present, the nano-sized particle-reinforced metal matrix composites could be manufactured by many methods. Different kinds of metals, predominantly Al, Mg, and Cu, have been employed for the production of composites reinforced by nano-sized ceramic particles such as carbides, nitrides, and oxides. The main drawbacks of these synthesis methods are the agglomeration of the nano-sized particles and the poor interface between the particles and the metal matrix. This work is aimed at reviewing the ex situ and in situ manufacturing techniques. Moreover, the distinction between the two methods is discussed in some detail. It was agreed that the in situ manufacturing technique is a promising method to fabricate the nano-sized particle-reinforced metal matrix composites.