Research progress on ceramic nanomaterials reinforced aluminum matrix nanocomposites

Abstract

Aluminum as a matrix phase in the metal matrix nanocomposites has several advantages, such as lightweight, ductile, corrosion resistance, and alloying ability with other elements. However, major disadvantages of aluminum as matrix phase for the nanocomposite are poor mechanical properties, low hardness, and poor wear resistance. Ceramic nanomaterials as continuous fibre, short fibre, particle or whisker can be reinforced in the aluminum in order to produced nanocomposites. An attempt has been made in this review paper to assess and ascertain recent research progress on ceramic nanoparticles reinforced aluminum matrix nanocomposites. The paper presents a review and overview of manufacturing, microstructure, properties and prospective applications of different ceramic nanomaterials incorporated aluminum/alloy matrix based nanocomposites.