REVIEW OF THE CHARACTERISTICS OF MICROSTRUCTURAL GRADIENTS IN FUNCTIONALLY GRADED ALUMINUM METALLIC COMPOUNDS AND THEIR FORMATION MECHANISM

The objective of this literature review was to analyze the characteristics of microstructural gradients in functionally graded aluminum metal composites (FGM) and their formation mechanism through the centrifugal casting process.Key concepts about functionally graded materials, their properties and manufacturing methods are presented.Liquid state processes to produce aluminum FGM such as casting, oven stirring, and gravity casting are detailed.A systematic search was carried out in scientific databases with keywords about aluminum FGM and centrifugal casting.Articles in English and Spanish published in the last decade were analyzed, prioritizing original research.It was found that by centrifugal casting it is possible to manufacture aluminum FGM with microstructural gradients of composition and properties.Parameters that influence the formation of gradients such as rotation speed, reinforcement fraction and particle size were identified.Centrifugal casting allows producing aluminum FGMs with desired microstructural gradients.Controlling process parameters is key to achieving the desired properties.More research is needed on gradation in other directions and with double gradient.This review provides an updated analysis on processing, microstructure and properties of aluminum FGM manufactured by centrifugal casting.It serves as a basis for future research in this field of study.