Due to the constant need for metal matrix nanocomposites (MMNCs), which are used in industrial applications such as automotive, aerospace, and many others, and therefore many researchers, are interested in making them nanocomposites with better performance, studies are continuing to improve their properties. In contrast to other versatile conventional production methods, powder metallurgy (PM) method is highly effective in eliminating porosity, wetting and casting defects. In this review, an in-depth discussion of the different MMNCs fabricated by the PM method with an explanation of the different stages of preparation of these nanocomposites such as powder production, pressing and sintering was discussed. Also, the different factors affecting milling and sintering processes were reviewed. Finally, the advantages, disadvantages, and more common applications of PM in the preparation of these nanocomposites mentioned above were discussed in some detail.

The Al2024 matrix composites reinforced by different weight percentages of nano-ZrO2 particles were prepared by stir-cast method. Physical and mechanical properties (microhardness, compressive test and elastic moduli) of the prepared composites samples were measured. Moreover, the effect of sliding distance and applied load on the wear behavior of all prepared samples was studied. The results showed that the relative density of the Al2024 matrix decreased with the increase ZrO2 nanoparticles content while the apparent porosity increased. Moreover, the microhardness, ultimate strength and Young's modulus of the composites were improved with increasing of ZrO2 content except fracture strain that reduced significantly. The wear rate decreased as the reinforcement content increased while it increased with the increase of the sliding distance and applied load. The microhardness, ultimate strength, bulk modulus of the composites containing 10 wt.% ZrO2 sample improved to approximately 31, 60 and 49%, respectively. For the same sample, the wear rate improved around 20.2 and 21.3 under applied loads 10 and 40 N, respectively.

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