Advances in Metal Composites and Processing Technologies

A special issue of Metals (ISSN 2075-4701).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 May 2019) | Viewed by 24297

Special Issue Editors


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Guest Editor
1. School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, Dublin City University, D09 V209 Dublin, Ireland
2. Advanced Processing Technology Research Centre APT, D09 V209 Dublin, Ireland
3. I-Form Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre, D04 C1P1 Dublin, Ireland
Interests: laser processing; material processing; material functionalisation; nanostructured materials; rapid prototyping; chromatography
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

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Guest Editor
School of Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering, Dublin City University, Dublin, Ireland
Interests: nano-reinforced metal matrix composites; additive manufacturing; material forming; processing technologies
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Metal matrix composites have been widely developed and studied for over a century. The advances in production technologies require new materials that can be used in high-tech structural and functional applications including aerospace, biomedical, automotive, packaging and sports. Metal matrix composites provide high mechanical properties such as high strength and elastic modulus and improved wear resistance. The thermal and electrical conductivity can also be tailored and improved. In recent years, nano-reinforced metal matrix composites have drawn wide attention as they provide high strength and can be used to produce light-weight components.

This special issue aims at collecting recent research studies on advancements and developments in metal matrix composites, nano-reinforced metal composites, and related production technologies. Topic areas such as forming of metallic materials, compositing forming, additive manufacturing, nanostructure metal forming, innovative joining methods, metal forming and non-conventional processes will be covered in this special issue.

Prof. Dermot Brabazon
Dr. Inam Ul Ahad
Guest Editors

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Keywords

  • metals
  • composites
  • nano-reinforcements
  • metal matrix composites
  • production technologies
  • metal forming

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Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

12 pages, 2200 KiB  
Article
Prediction of Mechanical Properties of Graphene Oxide Reinforced Aluminum Composites
by Bhagya Lakshmi Dasari, Dermot Brabazon and Sumsun Naher
Metals 2019, 9(10), 1077; https://doi.org/10.3390/met9101077 - 5 Oct 2019
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3569
Abstract
Estimating the effect of graphene oxide (GO) reinforcement on overall properties of aluminum (Al) matrix composites experimentally is time-consuming and involves high manufacturing costs and sophisticated characterizations. An attempt was made in this paper to predict the mechanical properties of GO/Al composites by [...] Read more.
Estimating the effect of graphene oxide (GO) reinforcement on overall properties of aluminum (Al) matrix composites experimentally is time-consuming and involves high manufacturing costs and sophisticated characterizations. An attempt was made in this paper to predict the mechanical properties of GO/Al composites by using a micromechanical finite element approach. The materials used for prediction included monolayer and multilayer GO layers distributed uniformly on the spherical Al matrix particles. The estimation was done by assuming that a representative volumetric element (RVE) represents the composite structure, and reinforcement and matrix were modeled as continuum. The load transfer between the GO reinforcement and Al was modeled using joint elements that connect the two materials. The numerical results from the finite element model were compared with Voigt model and experimental results from the GO/Al composites produced at optimized process parameters. A good agreement of numerical results with the theoretical models was noted. The load-bearing capacity of the Al matrix increased with the addition of GO layers, however, Young’s modulus of the GO/Al composites decreased with an increase in the number of layers from monolayer to 5 layers. The numerical results presented in this paper have demonstrated the applicability of the current approach for predicting the overall properties of composites. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Metal Composites and Processing Technologies)
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11 pages, 5554 KiB  
Article
Interface Structure and Mechanical Properties of 7075Al Hybrid Composite Reinforced with Micron Ti Metal Particles Using Pressure Infiltration
by Yixiong Liu, Zhenxing Zheng, Genghua Cao, Dezhi Zhu, Chao Yang and Mingqiang Luo
Metals 2019, 9(7), 763; https://doi.org/10.3390/met9070763 - 8 Jul 2019
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2957
Abstract
Micron Ti metal particles were incorporated into SiCp/7075Al composites using pressure infiltration. The interface structure between the Ti metal particles and the matrix during the casting processes were investigated. Results show that the dispersed unreacted Ti particles form mutual diffusion layer at the [...] Read more.
Micron Ti metal particles were incorporated into SiCp/7075Al composites using pressure infiltration. The interface structure between the Ti metal particles and the matrix during the casting processes were investigated. Results show that the dispersed unreacted Ti particles form mutual diffusion layer at the interface without the formation of low-temperature intermetallic phases during the solidification processes. The interaction between the micron Ti and the molten aluminum alloy is subject to the mutual diffusion coefficient of Ti–Al rather than the reaction activation energy. The tensile strength and plasticity of the composite were improved simultaneously due to the high interfacial bonding strength and released thermal misfit stress cause by the incorporated Ti metal particles. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Metal Composites and Processing Technologies)
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11 pages, 4700 KiB  
Article
Effect of Magnesium Matrix Grain Refinement Induced by Plastic Deformation in a Composite with Short Carbon Fibers
by Anita Olszówka-Myalska, Dariusz Kuc, Jerzy Myalski and Jacek Chrapoński
Metals 2019, 9(7), 724; https://doi.org/10.3390/met9070724 - 26 Jun 2019
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2833
Abstract
The magnesium matrix composite reinforced with 3 vol. % of short carbon fibers (Csf), fabricated, under industrial conditions, by the stir casting method, was applied to obtain composite bars by two extrusion methods: the novel method of cold severe plastic deformation with a [...] Read more.
The magnesium matrix composite reinforced with 3 vol. % of short carbon fibers (Csf), fabricated, under industrial conditions, by the stir casting method, was applied to obtain composite bars by two extrusion methods: the novel method of cold severe plastic deformation with a forward-backward rotating die (KoBo) and conventional extrusion at 400 °C. The effect of Mg(α) grain refining, as well as fibers behavior and phenomenon at the fiber-matrix interface, was examined by optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectroscopy and scanning-transmission electron microscopy methods. The Mg(α) grain quantitative characteristics revealed a decrease of the equivalent diameter from 219 ± 76 μm (as-cast) to 24 ± 10 μm and 0.89 ± 0.35 μm (the hot-extruded and KoBo-processed, respectively). In addition, due to the KoBo application, except for the Csf orientation that was parallel to the extrusion direction, an effect of fibers fragmentation on the length of few Csf diameters was detected. No significant changes in the Csf-matrix interface (besides those between new carbon surfaces) formed by fibers fragmentation, and the matrix created by extrusion were detected. A comparison of the mechanical properties of the Mg-Csf composite showed that the KoBo method ensured a spectacular increase in strength and plasticity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Metal Composites and Processing Technologies)
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15 pages, 9094 KiB  
Article
Manufacturing of 42SiCr-Pipes for Quenching and Partitioning by Longitudinal HFI-Welding
by Martin Kroll, Peter Birnbaum, Josephine Zeisig, Verena Kraeusel and Martin Franz-Xaver Wagner
Metals 2019, 9(6), 716; https://doi.org/10.3390/met9060716 - 25 Jun 2019
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3789
Abstract
In the pipe manufacturing and pipe processing industry, the demand for cost-effective pipes with high strength and good ductility is increasing. In the present study, the inductive longitudinal welding process was combined with a Quenching and Partitioning (Q&P) treatment to manufacture pipes with [...] Read more.
In the pipe manufacturing and pipe processing industry, the demand for cost-effective pipes with high strength and good ductility is increasing. In the present study, the inductive longitudinal welding process was combined with a Quenching and Partitioning (Q&P) treatment to manufacture pipes with enhanced mechanical properties. The aim of the Q&P process is to establish a martensitic structure with increased retained austenite content. This allows for the beneficial use of both phases: the strength of martensite as well as the ductility of retained austenite. A 42SiCr steel, developed for Q&P processes, was joined at the longitudinal seam by a high-frequency induction (HFI) welding process and was subsequently heat-treated. The applied heat treatments included normalizing, austenitizing, quenching, and two Q&P strategies (Q&P-A/Q&P-B) with distinct quenching (Tq = 200/150 °C) and partitioning temperatures (Tp = 300/250 °C). Investigations of the microstructures revealed that Q&P tubes exhibit increased amounts of retained austenite in the martensitic matrix. Differences between the weld junction and the base material occurred, especially regarding the morphology of the martensite; the martensite found in the weld junction is finer and corresponds more to the lath-type morphology, compared to the base material in the circumference. In all zones of the welded tube circumference, retained austenite has been found in similar distributions. The mechanical testing of the individual tubes demonstrated that the Q&P treatments offer increased strength compared to all other states and significantly improved ductility compared to the quenched condition. Therefore, the approach of Q&P treatment of HFI-welded tubes represents a route for the mass production of high-strength tubular products with improved ductility. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Metal Composites and Processing Technologies)
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14 pages, 6904 KiB  
Article
Magnesium Matrix Composite with Open-Celled Glassy Carbon Foam Obtained Using the Infiltration Method
by Anita Olszówka-Myalska, Marcin Godzierz, Jerzy Myalski and Patryk Wrześniowski
Metals 2019, 9(6), 622; https://doi.org/10.3390/met9060622 - 28 May 2019
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3417
Abstract
In this study, we present a new composite material that was developed using the pressure infiltration method. In this composite, carbon reinforcement in the form of an open-celled rectangular foam (Cof) was applied, and pure magnesium with two commercial magnesium cast [...] Read more.
In this study, we present a new composite material that was developed using the pressure infiltration method. In this composite, carbon reinforcement in the form of an open-celled rectangular foam (Cof) was applied, and pure magnesium with two commercial magnesium cast alloys (AZ31, RZ5) was used as the matrix. We examined the microstructure (LM, SEM + EDS) of composites as well as the density, porosity, hardness, compressive strength, flexural strength and tribological properties in dry conditions. It was revealed that the chemical composition of the matrix had a significant impact on the macrostructure, microstructure and properties of the composite. The matrix with rare elements (RZ5) induced poor infiltration of Cof and physicochemical degradation of the reinforcement, while pure magnesium ensured good infiltration, a stable friction coefficient and low wear. For the AZ31 alloy, the effects of infiltration were good; however, an increase in the tribological properties was not observed. Compared with the as-cast matrix materials, the presence of carbon foam in both pure Mg and AZ31 alloy induced an increase in compressive strength and stiffness as well as a decrease in flexural strength. Furthermore, SEM examination of the fractured and wear surfaces microstructure showed structural effects’ dependence on the matrix composition. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Metal Composites and Processing Technologies)
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19 pages, 7582 KiB  
Article
The Microstructure Evolution and Mechanical Properties of TiBw/TA15 Composite with Network Structure Prepared by Rapid Current Assisted Sintering
by Dongjun Wang, Hao Li, Xiaosong Wang, Wei Zheng, Zhangqian Lin and Gang Liu
Metals 2019, 9(5), 540; https://doi.org/10.3390/met9050540 - 10 May 2019
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3196
Abstract
TiBw/TA15 (TA15 alloy reinforced by TiB whiskers) composites with network microstructures were successfully prepared by current-assisted sintering at 1100 °C for 10 min. The influence of the sintering parameters on the microstructures of obtained composites was investigated. The sintering temperature was the main [...] Read more.
TiBw/TA15 (TA15 alloy reinforced by TiB whiskers) composites with network microstructures were successfully prepared by current-assisted sintering at 1100 °C for 10 min. The influence of the sintering parameters on the microstructures of obtained composites was investigated. The sintering temperature was the main factor affecting the average aspect ratio of TiBw, and the average diameter of TiBw could be controlled for various sintering conditions. Yield strength, ultimate compressive strength, and plastic strain at ambient temperature are 1172.5 MPa, 1818.4 MPa, and 22.4% for the TiBw/TA15 composites, respectively. Moreover, yield strength of the composites at 600 °C is 616.3 MPa, which is 26.1% higher than that of the TA15 titanium alloy. The effect of the TiBw on the microstructure evolution for the alloy matrix was discussed in detail. The strengthening mechanism of the TiBw/TA15 composites with network microstructure was attributed to the microstructure modification induced by TiBw, load bearing effect, and dislocation strengthening effect of the TiBw. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Metal Composites and Processing Technologies)
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11 pages, 3749 KiB  
Article
Simultaneously Enhanced Strength, Toughness and Ductility of Cast 40Cr Steels Strengthened by Trace Biphase TiCx-TiB2 Nanoparticles
by Chuan-Lu Li, Feng Qiu, Fang Chang, Xu-Min Zhao, Run Geng, Hong-Yu Yang, Qing-Long Zhao and Qi-Chuan Jiang
Metals 2018, 8(9), 707; https://doi.org/10.3390/met8090707 - 9 Sep 2018
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 3695
Abstract
Simultaneously improving the strength, toughness, and ductility of cast steels has always been a difficult problem for researchers. Biphase TiCx-TiB2 nanoparticle-reinforced cast steels are prepared by adding in situ nanosized biphase TiCx-TiB2/Al master alloy during the [...] Read more.
Simultaneously improving the strength, toughness, and ductility of cast steels has always been a difficult problem for researchers. Biphase TiCx-TiB2 nanoparticle-reinforced cast steels are prepared by adding in situ nanosized biphase TiCx-TiB2/Al master alloy during the casting process. The experimental results show that a series of significant changes take place in the microstructure of the steel: the ferrite-pearlite structure of the as-cast steels and the bainite structure of the steels after heat treatment are refined, the grain size is reduced, and the content of nanoparticles is increased. Promotion of nucleation and inhibition of dendrite growth by biphase TiCx-TiB2 nanoparticles leads to a refinement of the microstructure. The fine microstructure with evenly dispersed nanoparticles offers better properties [yield strength (1246 MPa), tensile strength (1469 MPa), fracture strain (9.4%), impact toughness (20.3 J/cm2) and hardness (41 HRC)] for the steel with 0.018 wt.% biphase TiCx-TiB2 nanoparticles, which are increased by 15.4%, 31.2%, 4.4%, 11.5%, and 7.9% compared with the 40Cr steels. The higher content of nanoparticles provides higher strengths and hardness of the steel but are detrimental to ductility. The improved properties may be attributed to fine grain strengthening and the pinning effect of nanosized carbide on dislocations and grain boundaries. Through this work, it is known that the method of adding trace (0.018 wt.%) biphase TiCx-TiB2 nanoparticles during casting process can simultaneously improve the strength, toughness, as well as ductility of the cast steel. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Metal Composites and Processing Technologies)
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