Review of recent trends and developments in aluminium 7075 alloy and its metal matrix composites (MMCs) for aircraft applications

The growing demand for fuel-efficient, lightweight and lower CO₂ emissions is led to the development of lightweight materials. Aluminium metal and its various alloys are extensively used in many structural applications, due to its specific properties including a high strength-to-weight ratio and comparatively good mechanical properties in comparison to the other metals and alloys. The mechanical properties of aluminium alloys can further be improved when they are used to fabricate metal matrix composites (MMCs). Various nano additives such as ceramics nanoparticles are regarded as promising nano reinforcement for aluminium-based MMC (AMMC), due to their various attractive properties such as high fracture strength and low weight. Herein, we comprehensively surveyed aluminium 7075 alloy-based MMC reinforced with various nanoparticles (organic and inorganic) manufactured through various processes and their influences are outlined on mechanical and tribological properties by highlighting outstanding results of recently published studies. To date, various fabrication techniques have been extensively used to exploit the full potential of nanoparticles. It was found that the stir casting technique with usually ceramic nanoparticles significantly improved the mechanical properties of aluminium 7075-based MMC from an aerospace sector perspective. This review also elucidates some current challenges and provides a complete framework for future research in the proposed field.