Research progress on strength and ductility of graphene-reinforced aluminum composites

The increasing requirements for light weight, high performance, and functionalization of materials in the automotive and aerospace fields have driven the innovation and development of composite materials with aluminum as the matrix. Graphene is regarded as an ideal reinforcing phase for enhancing the mechanical performance of aluminum matrix composites and achieving multi-functionalization due to its extremely excellent intrinsic mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties, as well as its extremely high specific surface area. This work reviews the research progress of the strength and plastic properties of graphene/aluminum composites from three aspects—experimental test, theoretical models, and numerical simulations—and analyzes the key factors and physical mechanisms affecting the strength and ductility of graphene/aluminum composites. On this basis, the challenges and development trends faced by graphene/aluminum composites in the synergistic improvement of strength and ductility were discussed, providing a reference for the in-depth research and application of graphene/aluminum matrix composites.