Recent progress in metal matrix hybrid composites fabricated via liquid and solid-state processing: Fabrication techniques, characteristics and future prospects
Sourabh Kumar Soni, Cheenepalli Nagarjuna, Man Mohan, Varnika Prakash, Sheetal Kumar Dewangan, Santosh Kumar Sharma, Shweta B. Thomas, Vinod Kumar Sharma, Benedict Thomas
Abstract
Metal matrix composites (MMCs) reinforced with hybrid reinforcing particles represent a new class of advanced materials known as metal matrix hybrid composites (MMHCs), offering enhanced potential to meet the stringent demands of modern industrial applications. The optimal combination of hybrid reinforcing particles, along with their homogeneous dispersion within MMHCs, is strongly associated with the superior functional and mechanical properties of these materials compared to those of conventional alloys and monolithic MMCs. This review focuses on recent advances in fabrication techniques, microstructure evolution, mechanical, wear, corrosion and machining characteristics of various alloys and high entropy alloys (HEAs)-based MMHCs fabricated via liquid-state, solid-state and additive manufacturing processing routes. A comprehensive tabular overview of the processing parameters, properties, and post-processing approaches reported for MMHCs in the literature is also presented. Following a comprehensive review of existing fabrication techniques, advanced and innovative processing methodologies are schematically proposed to enhance wettability and promote the homogeneous dispersion of reinforcing particles within MMHCs. Furthermore, the review concludes by summarizing critical challenges that require research attention and explores future trends in the development of MMHCs. This review provides valuable insights for improving the engineering utility of MMHCs by achieving a synergistic balance among various properties through reinforcement pre-processing and tailored fabrication techniques.