Breaking the strength-ductility trade-off for metal matrix composites: A review of the role of nanoscale reinforcement dimension on the deformation and strengthening mechanisms
Yuhang Xia, Xiang Zhang, Dongdong Zhao, Xudong Rong, Chunnian He, Naiqin Zhao
Abstract
Metal matrix composites (MMCs) reinforced by various dimensional nanoscale reinforcements (ranging from 0D to 3D) have gained significant importance in numerous fields such as electronic circuits, aerospace and new energy vehicles due to their exceptional mechanical and functional properties. Despite their widespread applications, the inherent disparity in properties between the matrix and nanoscale reinforcements often results in a trade-off between strength and plasticity, as well as diminished physical characteristics. This dilemma significantly impedes the advancement of MMCs. This review aims to discuss the current state of research on MMCs reinforced by nanoscale reinforcements, highlighting the intricately designed approaches for achieving high strength-ductility matching or enhanced physical properties. Furthermore, the review systematically examines the factors influencing strengthening, toughening mechanisms and deformation behavior, as supported by current experimental and theoretical research across various reinforcement dimensions. Analyzing and evaluating the internal mechanisms and influencing factors that govern the distinctive dimensional design to achieve specific properties can provide fundamental principles for designing and fabricating high-performance composite materials, facilitating the extensive application of the MMCs in cutting-edge fields such as aerospace, electronic communications, and artificial intelligence.