Metal matrix composite is a kind of metal material and its alloy material as the basic body, with one or more metal and non-metallic materials for artificial synthesis of composite materials. The reinforcing materials of metal matrix composites are mostly inorganic non-metallic materials, such as ceramics, carbon, graphite and boron, and metal wires can also be used as reinforcing materials. Metal matrix composites and polymer matrix composites, ceramic matrix composites and carbon / carbon composites together constitute a modern composite system.

        Metal matrix composites also have high toughness and high strength, heat resistance, not easy to burn, not easy to damp, good heat transfer and electrical conductivity, radiation protection. This is an eye-catching high-temperature material in aerospace engineering that can be used as a surface material for aircraft turbine engines, rocket engine hot zones, and supersonic aircraft. Silicon carbide particle aluminum alloy is a material with rapid development of metal matrix composites. The proportion of such metal matrix composites is only 1 / 3 of that of steel and 2 / 3 of that of titanium, which is similar to that of aluminum alloy. Its strength is better than that of medium carbon steel, similar to titanium metal, higher than that of aluminum alloy. The wear resistance of metal matrix composites is also better than that of titanium and aluminum alloys. It has been used in small batches in the automotive industry and mechanical engineering. In 5 ~ 15 years, automobile piston, brake parts, crankshaft, robot parts, computer parts, sports equipment and so on have commercial practical value.

        Metal matrix composites are generally used at temperatures below 350 degrees Celsius, and the production process is complicated and the cost is relatively expensive. At present, how to reduce the production cost and increase the use temperature is still being developed to achieve mass production and application.