In Situ Tungsten Carbide Formation in Nanostructured Copper Matrix Composite Using Mechanical Alloying and Sintering

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Composite Materials

Background:

• Tungsten carbide (WC) and W₂C are critical for advanced material applications.
• Developing novel synthesis routes for nanostructured composites is essential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize an in situ nanostructured copper tungsten carbide composite.
• To investigate the effects of mechanical alloying and sintering on phase formation and microstructure.

Main Methods:

• Mechanical alloying (MA) and powder metallurgy were employed for synthesis.
• Characterization included X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy.

Main Results:

• Tungsten carbide phases (WC and W₂C) were successfully formed after MA and sintering.
• Longer milling times and higher energy favored WC formation due to plastic deformation.
• Lattice parameter changes in copper indicated phase solubility, and surface analysis revealed MA-induced defects influenced W-C bonding.

Conclusions:

• Mechanical alloying is an effective route for synthesizing nanostructured copper tungsten carbide composites.
• The synthesis process significantly influences the formation and bonding of tungsten carbide phases.
• Understanding defect-phase interactions is key to tailoring composite properties.