Deformation Processes of Porous Metals and Metallic Foams (Review)

Although fabrication techniques of porous metals or metallic foams were widely reported, studies on plastic working and metal forming of the materials have been limited. As pores may be closed so that advantages, e.g., lightweight or large specific surface area, may decrease in deformation processes. However, deformation process of porous metals has several positive advantages. In this paper, past studies reported by the authors and other researchers are reviewed. It is shown that deformability of porous metals is generally high and sufficient for bulk metal forming. Applications only feasible with porous metals are described. It is concluded that deformation process of porous metals and metallic foams is advantageous for industrial applications.