Advances in Preparation Methods and Numerical Simulation of Composites: Formation and Properties

1. Introduction and Scope

Advanced composite materials are lightweight, have high strength, and have designable performance. Further advantages include their heat insulation, heat conduction, vibration reduction, high (low) temperature resistance, corrosion resistance, and wave transmission and absorption. The composites are widely used in aerospace, transportation, energy, and chemical industries, as well as in construction, textiles, sports, and medical treatment, and have played an important role in the development of modern science and technology and the renewal and upgrading of high-end equipment. The material is also one of the core contents of the modern low-carbon economy. Since monolithic materials are no longer state-of-the-art, composite materials represent an emerging future with many industrial applications, particularly where superior material properties are required.

This Special Issue intends to cover original research and critical review articles on recent advances in all aspects of metal–metal, metal–nonmetal, and nonmetal–nonmetal composites. The scope of this Special Issue includes the following:

• Material composition design;
• The design and manufacturing process;
• Microstructure and properties;
• Interfacial diffusion behavior;
• Microstructure characterization of constituent phases;
• Physical and chemical properties;
• Modeling and simulation.

2. Contributions

This Special Issue brings together the results of a series of studies on preparation methods and progress in numerical simulations of composite materials, which have collectively contributed to our deeper understanding of the formation mechanisms and properties of composite materials. Each study provides new insights into the improvement of composite material properties and the application of numerical simulation techniques through unique perspectives and innovative approaches, providing valuable theoretical support for further optimization of material design and performance evaluation.

Qu et al. revealed the phase-specific structure evolution of Al6061+TiC composites fabricated by additive under pressure at 250 °C by in situ neutron diffraction experiments. It was found that the addition of a small number of nanotubes significantly changed the deformation behavior. In contrast to the two-phase behavior observed for Al6061, Al6061+TiC composites exhibit a three-phase behavior during compression, which is caused by a change in the interphase stress state. The existence of TiC changed the dislocation activity at 250 °C by affecting the dislocation slip surface and promoting the accumulation of dislocation [Contribution 1].

Zhan et al. used electromagnetic-assisted laser cladding technology to prepare nickel-based composite coatings on Q345R substrates and analyzed the effects of different magnetic field strengths on the macroscopic morphology, microstructure, phase composition, microhardness, abrasion resistance, and corrosion resistance of the coatings. The experimental results show that the external magnetic field can effectively reduce surface defects and improve surface morphology without changing the phase composition of the coating. The external electromagnetic field can improve the wear resistance and corrosion resistance of the Ni-based laser cladding [Contribution 2].

Wang et al. investigated the effect of current density, plating solution flow rate, and distance from nozzle exit to cathode on the performance of Ni–diamond composite coatings. They verified the simulation results through experimental preparation and performance tests. The method provides a valuable basis for optimizing the jet electrodeposition process to prepare Ni–diamond composite coatings with excellent performance [Contribution 3].

Kakhidze et al. investigated the effect of ErF3 submicron particles on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the A359 alloy, providing an important theoretical basis for the modification of Al alloy. It was shown that ErF3 particles can effectively improve the organization of the A359 alloy and significantly improve the mechanical properties of the alloy by suppressing the crystallization front mechanism and reducing the formation of iron phase clusters and co-wafer layer silicon. This study provides a new idea for the application of ErF3 particles as a reinforcing phase in Al-Si system cast aluminum alloys and points out the direction for future in-depth research [Contribution 4].

Matvienko et al. investigated the plastic deformation of a diffusion-reinforced aluminum alloy turntable, revealing significant effects of Al3Er and TiB2 particles on the mechanical properties of the AA5056 and A356 alloys. The results showed that the yield strength, ultimate stress, and plasticity of the alloys were improved by the addition of Al3Er and TiB2 particles. In addition, the study explored the stress–strain regime of the disk by analytical integration, further elucidated the effect of the ratio of inner and outer radius on the plastic resistance and provided a theoretical basis for the design and application of an aluminum alloy turntable [Contribution 5].

Chen et al. prepared ultrathin Cu/Al composite plates by a cold-rolling composite process and investigated the effects of different annealing temperatures on the bonding pattern, microhardness, tensile strength, and peeling strength of the plates, providing important experimental data and a theoretical basis for the optimization of ultrathin composite properties [Contribution 6].

Zhu et al. prepared WC-Co-TiC/304 stainless steel composites by room-temperature compression and vacuum sintering methods and investigated the effects of different WC contents on the organization and properties of the materials, which revealed the key role of WC content on the interfacial bonding effect, organization distribution and defects, and provided references for the optimal design of the composites [Contribution 7].

Galyshev et al. studied the relationship between bending strength and interfacial shear strength in carbon fiber-reinforced Al-25% Sn alloy-based composite wires, revealing the effect of heat treatment on the interfacial strength of the composite wires and its role in fracture work. An in-depth analysis of the influence of interfacial strength on fracture behavior is provided by evaluating the relationship between interfacial shear strength and strength of the composite, providing information for the calculation of the critical shear strength at maximum strength [Contribution 8].

Kou et al. prepared TiC and TiC+ TiB2 composites by in situ nanoparticle/Al intermediate alloying in H13 steel, which significantly improved its impact toughness and wear resistance. It was shown that the dual-phase TiC+ TiB2 reinforced H13 steel performed well in terms of mechanical properties and wear resistance, providing insights into the application of trace nanoparticles in improving the properties of tool steels [Contribution 9].

Xia et al. reviewed the progress of research on high manganese austenitic steel in cryogenic environments, focusing on the factors affecting its mechanical properties and the causes of the deterioration of its cryogenic properties, as well as describing the mechanism of toughening. The study provides a theoretical basis and technical guidance for improving the performance of high manganese steel in the application of liquefied natural gas storage tanks [Contribution 10].

These research contributions reveal the significant influence of different strengthening phases and processes on the mechanical properties and wear and corrosion resistance of metal alloys. The microstructures of the materials have been optimized, and their integrated properties have been improved by the addition of nanoparticles and applied magnetic fields and current densities. These studies provide a valuable theoretical basis for the design and application of metallic composites and support further development and innovation in the field of materials science.

3. Conclusions and Outlook

This Special Issue provides an in-depth look at the latest research advances in a wide range of composites, particularly metal–matrix composites, covering the enhancement of material properties, the development of sustainable processing methods, and the exploration of new applications. Various articles demonstrate the great potential of composites to address future challenges and drive technological innovation, highlighting their key role in multi-functionality and economic growth. In particular, composites show promise for a wide range of applications in areas such as additive manufacturing, coating technologies, and alloy modification. Future research is expected to focus on advanced manufacturing technologies, in particular on improving predictive models through augmented simulation to more accurately simulate the behavior of materials under different conditions, supporting rapid innovation and optimal design.