Recent progress in graphene-reinforced aluminum matrix composites

Recent years witnessed a growing research interest in graphene-reinforced aluminum matrix composites(GRAMCs).Compared with conventionalreinforcements of aluminum matrix composites(AMCs),graphene possesses manyattractive characteristics such as extremely high strength and modulus,unique self-lubricating property,high thermal conductivity(TC)and electrical conductivity(EC),andlow coefficient of thermal expansion(CTE).A lot of studies have demonstrated that theincorporation of graphene into Al or Al alloy can effectively enhance mechanical andphysical properties of the Al matrix.The purpose of this work is aimed to trace recentdevelopment of GRAMCs.Initially,this paper covers a brief overview of fabricationmethods of GRAMCs.Then,mechanical,tribological,thermal and electrical properties ofrecently developed GRAMCs are presented and discussed.Finally,challenges andcorresponding solutions related to GRAMCs are reviewed.