Influence of varying carbon content in (V,Nb,Ta,Ti,W)C high entropy carbide- Ni based cermets on densification, microstructure, mechanical properties and phase stability

The influence of varying carbon content on the microstructure and mechanical properties was studied in the (V, Nb,Ta,Ti,W)C -12 vol% Ni system, allowing to define the carbon window for eta and graphite phase formation. Microstructure and phase analysis were performed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and electron probe microanalysis (EPMA), and the transverse rupture strength (TRS), Vickers hardness and Palmqvist fracture toughness were measured. The results elucidate the influence of the carbon content on the eutectic temperature, carbide grain size and morphology, phase stability and mechanical properties in high entropy carbide (V,Nb,Ta,Ti,W)C-Ni cermets. The phase stability and chemical reactivity with steel of the High Entropy Carbide (HEC) cermets was assessed in static interaction couples at 1200 degrees C, and compared with that of a conventional WC-Co cemented carbide.

Automated summary

The influence of varying carbon content on the microstructure and mechanical properties in the (V, Nb,Ta,Ti,W)C -12 vol% Ni system was investigated. The results revealed the impact of carbon content on eutectic temperature, carbide grain size and morphology, phase stability, and mechanical properties in high entropy carbide (V,Nb,Ta,Ti,W)C-Ni cermets. Additionally, the phase stability and chemical reactivity with steel of the High Entropy Carbide (HEC) cermets were assessed and compared to conventional WC-Co cemented carbides at 1200 degrees C.