Towards the Optimization of Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of NbC-based Cermets
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Keywords:
Niobium Carbide, Cermets, Microstructure, Grain inhibition, Mechanical PropertiesAbstract
The NbC-Ni cermets have shown potential as an eco-friendly alternative to WC-Co cemented
carbide tools. However, their room temperature hardness and flexural strength necessitate further
improvement. Various techniques, such as grain inhibition and reinforcement, have been employed to
enhance these properties. This study explores the effects of adding 4% VC and 4% Mo₂C on the
microstructure and mechanical properties of NbC-12Ni cermets. The NbC-12Ni cermets were produced
using vacuum liquid phase sintering (LPS) at temperatures of 1400°C and 1450°C. The incorporation of
4% VC and 4% Mo₂C significantly enhanced the properties of NbC-Ni cermets. SEM analysis indicated
substantial grain refinement as a result of grain inhibition mechanisms. The grain sizes observed ranged
from 6.84 µm in NbC-12Ni to 2.34 µm in the sample containing 4 wt. % VC and 4 wt. % Mo₂C, sintered
at 1450°C. At this temperature, the incorporation of VC and Mo₂C resulted in a notable 21.5% increase in
average hardness, despite a slight decrease in fracture toughness from 10.224 MPa√m to 9.324 MPa√m.
Additionally, the flexural strength improved, reaching a maximum of 936.39 N/mm for NbC
Ni4VC4Mo₂C, marking a 14.1% increase compared to the NbC-Ni cermet.
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