Pre-placed laser cladding of metal matrix diamond composite on mild steel

► Laser cladding of metal matrix diamond composite on mild steel was investigated. ► Effect of process parameters on diamond graphitization was discussed. ► Development of a TiC layer around diamond particles was detected. ► Effect of process parameters on thickness of the TiC layer was investigated. ► Results of deposition by a CW laser were compared with those of a pulsed laser.