Mechanical properties and thermal stability of pure W and W-0.5 wt%ZrC alloy manufactured with the same technology

The mechanical properties, microstructure and thermal stability of hot rolled pure W and W-0.5 wt%ZrC alloy manufactured using the same technology are systematically studied. The results of Vickers hardness and tensile tests show that the W-0.5 wt%ZrC alloy has a higher hardness, ultimate tensile strength, ductility and thermal stability compared to pure W. The recrystallization temperature of W-0.5 wt%ZrC alloy is about 1300 degrees C which is 100 degrees C higher than that of hot rolled pure W (1200 degrees C). The ductile to brittle transition temperature (DBTT) of W-0.5 wt%ZrC alloy is 50 degrees C lower than that of the rolled pure tungsten. The above results indicate that at the fully same fabrication technology, the trace ZrC does improve the mechanical properties and thermal stability of W. The possible micro-mechanisms were investigated and proposed.