A review on microstructures and properties of graphene-reinforced aluminum matrix composites fabricated by friction stir processing

Abstract

Adding reinforcement is an effective way to improve the properties of aluminum alloy. Graphene is an ideal reinforcement for the fabrication of aluminum matrix composites (AMCs) due to its excellent comprehensive performances. Friction stir processing (FSP), as a novel processing technology, is an ideal candidate for fabricating graphene-reinforced AMCs with high performances under appropriate conditions. The present paper firstly summarizes the structure-property characteristics of graphene-reinforced AMCs fabricated by FSP. Then the influences of process conditions on the structure-property evolutions of the composites are discussed. It is found that the addition of graphene leads to grain refinement and texture variation of the stir zone during FSP. Besides, mechanical properties, electrical conductivity, thermal conductivity, tribological property and corrosion resistance of the AMCs are considerably affected by the content of graphene and various microstructure evolutions induced by the added graphene. Composite of reinforcement, adding method of graphene, FSP parameters, FSP pass number and FSP path pattern are critical process conditions that determine the microstructures and properties of the AMCs. The present paper not only concludes major findings of the previous researches but also suggests future recommendations for fabrication of graphene-reinforced AMCs through FSP.