Review of progress on fabrication technology of Mg matrix composites

• The progress on mainstream and novel methods for fabricating MgMCs are reviewed in four categories, and their principles are introduced in detail. • The characteristics, including advantages, disadvantages and industrial applications, of each fabrication method are discussed. • The influence of process parameters on the final mechanical properties of MgMCs in different processes are discussed in detail. • Series measurements for enhancing the performance of MgMCs are proposed based on the current status. Mg matrix composites (MgMCs) with enhanced mechanical and functional properties, as well as improved elastic modulus, have aroused rising attention from the aerospace, new energy vehicles, and consumer electronics industries. The suitability of the fabrication process is crucial for achieving uniform dispersion of various reinforcing materials within the Mg alloy matrix and for forming strong interfacial bonding. This ensures that the produced MgMCs meet the requirements for fabricating various components with different demands for size and properties. This paper comprehensively reviews the present fabrication methods for MgMCs in four categories: stir casting, external addition methods, in-situ synthesis methods and novel fabrication methods. It comprehensively focuses on the fabrication principles, process characteristics and key parameters optimization of each technology. Through in-depth analysis, their advantages, limitations and applications are evaluated. Meanwhile, the latest research achievements in microstructure control and mechanical performance optimization are explored. Eventually, the development directions of the fabrication methods for MgMCs in the future are also discussed.