A Review on Hybrid Aluminium Matrix Composites: Processing– Property Relationships and Future Perspectives Using Artificial Intelligence

Abstract

Hybrid aluminium matrix composites (HAMMCs) have been identified as promising advanced materials in the marine, automotive, and aerospace industries because of their enhanced strength-to-weight ratio, improved wear resistance, and corrosion properties. Although traditional cast alloys like LM30 are well recognized for their good castability and corrosion resistance, they have been found to be deficient in hardness and tribological properties when subjected to harsh operating conditions. The addition of hybrid ceramic reinforcements, especially rutile titanium dioxide (TiO2) along with other phases, has been identified as an efficient strategy to address these issues. This manuscript provides a detailed review of hybrid TiO2 reinforced aluminium composites, with a special focus on LM-series alloys. Different processing methods such as stir casting, powder metallurgy, squeeze casting, and friction stir processing have been critically analyzed to understand the microstructure and property relationships. The literature survey reveals notable enhancements in mechanical properties, with a hardness value of up to 173 HV and ultimate tensile strength of 351 MPa for optimized hybrid reinforcement conditions. Nano-sized TiO2 and hybrid phases have been found to be more efficient as strengthening agents because of their ability to refine the grain size, ensure efficient load transfer, and activate Orowan strengthening mechanisms. Although extensive research has been conducted on AA2xxx and AA6xxx alloys, there is a lack of information on hybrid LM30-TiO2 systems. Taking into account the suitability of LM30 for marine applications, there is immense potential for improving tribological properties and retaining corrosion resistance using hybrid reinforcement approaches. This review highlights the research gaps and provides a scientific basis for the development of hybrid LM30-based high-performance composite materials in the future.