Study on effects of CNTs on the properties of WC-based impregnated diamond matrix composites

Carbon nanotubes were introduced into WC (tungsten carbide)-based impregnated diamond matrix composites for trying to solve the problems of high brittleness, low strength and poor toughness because carbon nanotubes have excellent mechanical properties, chemical stability and thermal stability. WC-D (WC diamond composite) and carbon nanotubes-WC-D specimens were prepared by the vacuum hot-pressing. The microstructure, strength and friction properties of specimens were investigated. The results show that carbon nanotubes enhanced both the strength and wear resistance of WC-D matrix composites. Comparing with WC-D composites, carbon nanotubes-WC-D composites with 0.075 wt-% have high strength and abrasion ratio of 527 MPa and 1027, respectively.