Effects of LaB6 addition on the microstructure and mechanical properties of ultrafine grained WC-10Co alloys

The ultrafine grain WC-10Co alloys were prepared by the planetary ball milling method and low pressure sintering. The effects of LaB₆ addition on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the based alloys were investigated by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope and mechanical property testing. It has been shown that the grain growth and regularization of WC particles occur simultaneous with the addition of LaB₆. Adding suitable amount of LaB₆ improves the density, hardness and fracture toughness of the ultrafine WC-10Co alloys, and decreases the volume fraction of Co₃W₃C phase in ultrafine WC-10Co alloys.