Abstract
This paper provides deeper insights into the performance of diamond particulate reinforced refractory composites used for cutting tools in the oil and gas industries. In particular, 25C(diamond)-70.5WC-4.5Co composites were enhanced with zirconia additives in proportions of 4 wt.% and 10 wt.% via the spark plasma sintering method. Wear tests were performed, and the analyses of elemental composition, morphology, and microstructure were completed. It was found that the addition of yttria-stabilized zirconia increased the plasticity of the matrix and thus introduced the ductile fracture mechanism, reducing the role of abrasive wear. As a result, the specific wear rate was reduced by 44% after the addition of 4 wt.% of zirconia and by 80% with 10 wt.% of ZrO(2). The presence of zirconia contributed to the increase in the retention force between the matrix and diamond grits, which further reduced the intensity of the abrasive mechanism.