Microstructure and mechanical properties of some metal matrix composites coatings by laser cladding

Abstract
During the last decade, many studies have been devoted to metal matrix composites (MMC), consisting of hard ceramic materials embedded in a metallic substrate. The metallic matrix provides the necessary ductility, whilst the hard phase provides the high hardness, the high Young modulus and the good wear resistance. Laser cladding can be used to elaborate such MMC ; by adjusting laser power and interaction time, it is possible to melt the metallic elements without affecting the hard phases (oxides, carbides.). The present work deals with the elaboration and the characterization of MMC coatings on different substrates (copper- or iron-base materials). Metallic matrix is constitued by a nickel base material and tungsten carbides are used as hard particles.