Ultrasonic Cavitation Based Processing of Metal Matrix Nanocomposites: An Overview

Metal matrix nanocomposites (MMNCs) have emerged as an important class of materials for structural applications specifically in the automobile and aerospace sectors; however, development of cost effective mass production technique of MMNCs with requisite operational and geometrical flexibilities is still a great challenge. Focused research in the last decade has highlighted that ultrasonic cavitation based processing is the most promising method for manufacturing of MMNCs with nearly uniform distribution of nanoparticles, having added advantage of being a liquid-phase route. This article presents an overview on the basic principles and recent advances in the ultrasonic cavitation based processing of MMNCs with a particular emphasis on identifying relationships amongst processing variables, microstructural parameters and mechanical properties. Critical issues of MMNCs fabrication are discussed.