Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110004, China

A concept of microstructure design for materials or materials microstructure engineering is proposed. The argument was suggested based on literature review and some our new research work on second phase strengthening mechanisms and mechanical property modeling of a particulate reinforced metal matrix composite. Due to development of computer technology, it is possible now for us to establish the relationship between microstructures and properties systematically and quantitatively by analytical and numerical modeling in the research scope of computerization materials. Discussions and examples on intellectual optimization of microstructure are presented on two aspects: grain boundary engineering and optimal geometry of particulate reinforcements in two-phase materials.