The evaluation Of The Non-Toxic Ferrous Matrix Based WC Reinforced Composites: A Review

Abstract

Metal matrix composites are mainly used as a cutting tool insert material. These types of materials are essential to maintain desired mechanical and microstructure properties at elevated temperatures due to friction and wear. Nano sized Tungsten Carbide reinforced composites are mostly used for these conditions. The production of sintered nano sized Tungsten Carbide reinforced composites are done by using powder metallurgy. The different mass ratios of elements including mostly Cobalt and the others could be added as binder phase. The binder phase provides to metal matrix composite superior features including high elasticity, good solubility, similar thermal conduction coefficient and, effective liquid phase sintering mechanism. Cobalt is one of the base elements of high-performance superalloys and rechargeable battery technology. Also, 40% of global need supplied by a single country makes itself higher-priced. It is also known that Cobalt is a high skin allergen and carcinogenic. Together with these obstacles, the investigations of low-cost, non-toxic, or reduced-toxicity materials are always needed. In this study, the related current literature has been investigated in detail. The studies focus on an alternative matrix that providing mentioned conditions explained with pros and cons.