Aluminum Matrix Composites Reinforced wi

Graphene, a single-atom-thick sheet of sp2 hybridized carbon atoms densely packed within a hexagonal crystal lattice, owes a significant portion of its rapidly expanding usage in various fields of industry and science to its large surface area, lightweight, unique electronic and thermal properties, and extraordinary mechanical properties that it possesses. Using lightweight and high-strength materials leads to a substantial decrease in fuel consumption as well as an increase in payload. Among the numerous candidates to fulfill the aforementioned requirements, Al alloys and specifically, Al matrix composites (AMCs) reinforced with various graphene particles (nano-sheets, nano-platelets, etc.) stand out owing to their inherent lightweight, high specific strength and modulus, superior ductility, and excellent thermal conductivity. In this paper, it has been endeavored to provide a comprehensive overview of the various methods of the synthesis and fabrication of graphene-reinforced AMCs with an overall intention of achieving a homogeneous distribution of graphene within the Al matrix. The emphasis of this review has been largely placed upon the detailed examination of the mechanical properties of these composites described in the recent literature published in this field.