Synthesis of nano-sized WC-Co powders by reduction-carburization process

Abstract

The feasibility of producing nano-sized WC and WC-Co powders by reduction and carburization of WO3 and Co3O4 under hydrogen and methane atmospheres was evaluated. WC powders of 1 μm in particle size were obtained from WO3 on reduction and carburization at 950°C. On the other hand, nano-sized WC-Co powders with a particle size of ∼ 100 nm could be produced by a two-step reduction process, using a blend of WO3 and Co3O4. Critical control parameters in this process, such as the gas flow rate, temperature and treatment time, were found.