Research progress on fabrication, processing, and mechanical properties of heterostructured nanocarbon/Al composites: a review

Nanocarbon materials, especially carbon nanotubes and graphene, have become preferred reinforcements for advanced Al matrix composites due to their excellent physical and mechanical properties. However, the strength-ductility trade-off in nanocarbon/Al composites remains a major obstacle to their engineering applications. Recent research has shown that heterogeneous design, aimed at promoting uniform strain distribution, enables nanocarbon/Al composites to maintain high strength while significantly improving their ductility. This work reviews recent research advances in heterostructured nanocarbon/Al composites, focusing on their fabrication, mechanical properties, fatigue damage behaviors, and hot processing characteristics. By addressing the critical scientific issues spanning from fabrication to service performance, this review aims to provide a theoretical foundation for developing high-performance heterostructured nanocarbon/Al composites and hasten their engineering applications.