A review of particulate-reinforced aluminum matrix composites fabricated by selective laser melting

Selective laser melting (SLM) is an emerging layer-wise additive manufacturing technique that can generate complex components with high performance. Particulate-reinforced aluminum matrix composites (PAMCs) are important materials for various applications due to the combined properties of Al matrix and reinforcements. Considering the advantages of SLM technology and PAMCs, the novel SLM PAMCs have been developed and researched in recent years. Therefore, the current research progress about the SLM PAMCs is reviewed. Firstly, special attention is paid to the solidification behavior of SLM PAMCs. Secondly, the important issues about the design and fabrication of high-performance SLM PAMCs, including the selection of reinforcement, the influence of parameters on the processing and microstructure, the defect evolution and phase control, are highlighted and discussed comprehensively. Thirdly, the performance and strengthening mechanism of SLM PAMCs are systematically figured out. Finally, future directions are pointed out on the advancement of high-performance SLM PAMCs.