Synthesis-Fabrication of an Al2O3-Tungsten Carbide Composite |
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| Authors: | PHILIP H CRAYTON EDWARD E GREENE |
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| Affiliation: | New York State College of Ceramics at Alfred University, Alfred, New York 14802 |
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| Abstract: | A composite of 70 vol% Al2O3 and 30 vol% tungsten carbide was formed by hot-pressing. Simultaneously carbon reacts with an intimate mixture of WO3 and Al2O3 to form a dense body. The composite approached theoretical density; a 1- to -10-μm carbide phase was uniformly dispersed in a 2-μm Al2O3 matrix. Maximum density and fine-grained microstructure were obtained when pressure was applied during heating from 1200° to 1600°C and temperature and pressure were then maintained for 20 min. At an initial ratio of 2.8 and 2.9 mol C/mol WO3, the tungsten appeared as free W, WC, and W2C. For C/WO3=3.0 to 3.6, mixtures of W2C and WC were present, whereas for C/WO3>3.6, free C appeared with WC. The effects of the hot-pressing parameters are discussed. |
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