The friction and strength properties of diamond

Abstract

Carbon makes up 0.2% of the Earth's crust, being the 19th most abundant element. The vast majority of this carbon is in the form of carbonates, very little in the form of graphite, and even less as diamond. Diamonds are found either in kimberlite, their host rock, or in deposits such as alluvial fans. The premier source of diamonds is South Africa, but many other countries, including Australia and the USSR, produce diamonds. Diamonds have many industrial uses, their most important being as abrasive powders and grits, and as tips for cutting tools. The demand for diamonds is increasing as industry makes greater use of ceramics and otl1er hard materials. Since natural diamond production cannot keep pace with demand, an increasing proportion of diamonds are produced synthetically. Man-made sintered diamond materials have also been developed.