Interfacial Aspects of Metal Matrix Composites Prepared from Liquid Metals and Aqueous Solutions: A Review

Abstract

The paper reviews the preparation of the different metallic nanocomposites. In the preparation of composites, especially in the case of nanocomposites, interfacial phenomena play an important role. This review summarizes the literature on various interfacial phenomena, such as wettability and reactivity in the case of casting techniques and colloidal behavior in the case of electrochemical and electroless methods. The main contribution of this work lies in the evaluation of collected interfacial phenomena and difficulties in the production of metal matrix composites, for both nano-sized and micro-sized reinforcements. This study can guide the composite maker in choosing the best criteria for producing metal matrix composites, which means a real interface with good adhesion between the matrix and the reinforcement. This criterion results in desirable mechanical and physical properties and homogenous dispersion of the reinforcement in the matrix.