Simultaneously high fracture toughness and transverse rupture strength in ultrafine cemented carbide

Abstract

Ultrafine WC–Co materials were prepared by a developed route combining in-situ synthesis of composite powder and sinter-HIP technique. Simultaneous enhancement in fracture toughness and transverse rupture strength has been achieved in the prepared cemented carbide. Based on detailed characterizations of Co binder phase, dislocations in WC grains and interfacial features, the mechanisms for co-enhancement in fracture toughness and strength of cemented carbides are proposed.