Effect of graphene on the microstructure and properties of nickel-based tungsten carbide coatings by laser cladding

Ni60-30%WC-x% graphene(mass fraction, x=0.0, 0.1, 0.3, 0.5) coatings were fabricated by laser cladding on the Q235 steel substrates, and the effect of graphene on the microstructure and properties of nickel-based tungsten carbide coatings was investigated. The research shows that the phases of coating samples are mainly composed of Ni-Cr-Fe solid solution with γ phase structure, WC, W₂C、Cr₇C₃、Cr₂₃C₆、B₄C. The graphene improves the microstructures, microhardness, and wear resistance of the laser cladding nickel-based tungsten carbide coatings. Especially, when the graphene content is 0.3% by mass fraction, the coatings show the fine and uniforms microstructures, the higher hardness, and the excellent crack and wear resistance.