Synthesis of Al2O3-WC composite powder by SHS process

Al₂O₃-WC composite powder was synthesized by self-propagating high-temperature synthesis using Al powder as a reducing agent. WC, W₂C and Al₂O₃ were concurrently formed in WO₃-Al-C system. It was found that the complete reaction was achieved with excessive addition of carbon and appropriate processing parameters such as degree of dilution, particle size of aluminum, pellet compaction pressure and carbon source. The final product which was leached by 50% 1 : 4 HNO₃ + HF diluted solution was consisted of Al₂O₃-55wt%WC having 2–3 m of mean particle size.