Composites Prepared via Friction Stir Processing Technique: A Review

This review article investigates the mechanical and tribological properties of metal matrix composites (MMCs) prepared through friction stir processing technique. MMCs are developed materials with enhanced mechanical properties, exhibits their application in automotive and aerospace industries. The limitations of liquid metallurgical route can be reduced by using Friction Stir Processing (FSP) technique. FSP, a developed methodology technologically advanced by friction stir welding process is reviewed to fabricate the MMCs. In FSP, a hole or groove is made in the alloy. Reinforcement filled in the groove or hole are distributed in the matrix material by the FSP tool. Heat produced between the tool and the surface tends to the grain refinement. Owing to grain refinement, mechanical and wear properties of the composites are enhanced. In this review article, mechanical and wear behavior of the composite developed through FSP method are reviewed, which will help the researchers and industrial societies to fabricate the composite of required enhanced properties.