Fabrication and Secondary Processing Techniques for High-Performance Magnesium Metal Matrix Composites
Keywords:
Magnesium metal matrix composites, Fabrication techniques, Friction stir processing, Secondary processingAbstract
Magnesium metal matrix composites (MMMCs) have emerged as promising lightweight engineering materials owing to their high specific strength, excellent stiffness, superior wear resistance, and enhanced damping characteristics. These attributes make them highly suitable for applications in the automotive, aerospace, biomedical, and defense sectors. The performance of MMMCs is strongly influenced by the fabrication route employed, as the processing technique governs the distribution of reinforcement, interfacial bonding, porosity, and overall microstructure. This review presents a comprehensive overview of the major fabrication techniques used for magnesium metal matrix composites, including stir casting, squeeze casting, powder metallurgy, pressure less infiltration, in-situ synthesis, spray deposition, disintegrated melt deposition, and friction stir processing. The advantages, limitations, and typical applications of each technique are critically discussed with emphasis on their influence on mechanical and tribological properties. Furthermore, secondary processing methods such as extrusion, equal channel angular pressing, rolling, and forging are reviewed to highlight their role in grain refinement, defect elimination, and enhancement of composite performance. A comparative assessment of the various processing routes is also presented to facilitate the selection of suitable manufacturing techniques for specific engineering applications. The review provides valuable insights into current developments and future directions for the design and processing of high-performance magnesium metal matrix composites.
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