Influence of 2D solid lubricants on mechanical and tribological behaviour of Al 7XXX series metal matrix composites: A comprehensive review

Aluminium alloys (Al 7XXX), due to their low hardness and poor friction-wear behaviour have restricted structural and tribological applications. Hence, researchers are now focusing on 2D solid lubricants as reinforcement in Al 7XXX metal matrix composites to enhance their mechanical and tribological properties. 2D solid lubricants possess better hardness, self-lubrication, low friction, high wear resistance, and higher thermal stability. This article reports the influence of 2D solid lubricants on the mechanical and tribological behaviour of Al 7XXX Series metal matrix composites fabricated by different techniques available for Al MMCs. This article also, details the causes of mechanical and tribological failures in Al 7XXX MMCs, aiding research in overcoming such issues for novel Al-reinforced 2D solid lubricant MMCs. In addition, various wear mechanisms like delamination, adhesive, and oxidative wear reported for the Al 7XXX metal matrix composites at various tribological conditions are comprehensively presented in this review article.