Abstract
This paper is aimed at investigating the mechanical properties of spark plasma sintered alumina (Al2O3) reinforced with tungsten-carbide-cobalt (WC-12wt%Co). Pure Al2O3 and admixed-Al2O3 powders were sintered using spark plasma sintering (SPS) technique at a temperature of 1800°C, heating and cooling rates of 100 °C/min and 200 °C/min, a pressure of 48 MPa in an argon atmosphere. The density, hardness (HV) and indentation fracture toughness (KIC) of the sintered samples were measured and compared. Between 9 and 17% increase was observed in the HV values of the additives, while the KIC value recorded an increase between 17 and 63% for all the additive as compared to pure Al. Phase analysis and identification was carried out with X-ray diffraction and microstructure was taken with scanning electron microscope. The results obtained showed the samples potential for cutting tool applications.
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