Advanced Exploration of Microstructure Evolution, Mechanical Properties, and Design of Metal Matrix Composites and Alloys
A special issue of Materials (ISSN 1996-1944). This special issue belongs to the section "Metals and Alloys".
Deadline for manuscript submissions: 20 December 2025 | Viewed by 52
Special Issue Editor
Interests: microstructure-process-property relationships; small punch creep test in high temperature aluminum (HITEMAL); high-performance metal matrix composite (MMCs); smart dry mechanical powder processing; 1-hydrogen production & embrittlement in steel; ni based alloys
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Special Issue Information
Dear Colleagues,
Metal matrix composites (MMCs) combine a metal matrix with reinforcing elements such as ceramics or metals and offer an exceptional strength-to-weight ratio and wear resistance, which are crucial for the aerospace and automotive industries, among others. High-performance alloys also achieve excellent mechanical properties for demanding applications through precise composition and processing. This Special Issue, entitled “Advanced Exploration of Microstructure Evolution, Mechanical Properties, and Design of Metal Matrix Composites and Alloys”, examines the intricate relationships between microstructure and performance and investigates the ways in which cutting-edge fabrication techniques, characterization methods, and design strategies can improve MMCs and alloys.
Challenges and Research Gaps
Despite progress in the field, there are still challenges that require further research. Among the most important issues are the following:
- Achieving a homogeneous distribution of reinforcements in MMCs to minimize agglomeration and ensure consistent properties, as non-uniformity can lead to reduced mechanical performance;
- Minimizing defects such as porosity and unwanted intermetallic formation, especially in traditional methods such as stir casting and powder metallurgy, where particle wetting and density variations present difficulties;
- Balancing trade-offs, such as increasing strength and modulus while reducing ductility, with this challenge exemplified by Al-Al₂O₃ composites, in which yield strength was increased from 105 to 120 MPa but ductility dropped from 10% to 2%;
- Developing cost-effective and scalable manufacturing processes, especially for advanced techniques such as AM, which show promise but present challenges in terms of industrial scalability and cost;
- Understanding and controlling the interface between the matrix and reinforcements critical to optimizing properties, with recent research emphasizing the need for in-depth fundamental studies at the atomic level;
- Machining and processing difficulties due to the hardness and abrasiveness of MMCs, as highlighted in studies on the CNC turning of aluminum MMCs, affecting the material removal rate and surface roughness.
We invite researchers to submit articles that address important challenges, such as achieving uniform reinforcement in MMCs, optimizing alloy compositions, and developing innovative manufacturing processes. Studies on design and simulation for real-world applications are highly encouraged to advance the next generation of high-performance materials.
Dr. Behzad Sadeghi
Guest Editor
Manuscript Submission Information
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Keywords
- metal matrix composites
- high-performance alloys
- microstructure evolution
- mechanical properties
- additive manufacturing
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