Friction stir process: a green fabrication technique for surface composites—a review paper

Abstract

In many applications, surface properties of materials or components are more important than the entire volume material properties. The hardness, wear and corrosion resistance of material mainly depends on the surface properties. Improved surface properties also increased the life span of components. The friction stir process is a novel solid-state processing technique that is widely used for welding difficult-to-weld materials. In this paper, the applications of the friction stir process in surface modifications and fabrication of aluminum matrix surface composites were discussed. The effects of friction stir process parameters, tool design, reinforcement and reinforcement techniques on the surface properties were also reported.