Review: Diamond Metallization as a Method of Improving the Efficiency of Superhard Materials

— This article analyzes the current status of developments in the field of metallization of diamond powders as a method of improving the performance of cutting and drilling tools by increasing the level of diamond retention in the matrix of the superhard material. In recent years attention has been focused on the production of coatings based on carbide-forming metals (Cr, Ti, W, Mo, and others), providing a solid chemical bond of the matrix with the diamond surface. This article presents a physicochemical analysis of the published experimental data on the structure of the diamond–metal transition zone responsible for the level of diamond retention. The experimental results are demonstrated, which indicate a significant (in a number of cases over 50%) improvement in the efficiency of diamond tools upon use of metallized diamonds.