The effect of ZrB2, Y2O3, and/or graphene nanoplatelet incorporation on densification, microstructural evolution, and compressive deformation of W-0.7Ni-0.3Fe alloys

Abstract

In recent times, dispersion strengthening has been given prime importance by researchers to modify the microstructure and enhance the mechanical properties of tungsten alloys for their applications in strategic sectors. The present study focuses on the incorporation of Y2O3, ZrB2, and graphene nanoplatelet (GNP) in W-0.7Ni-0.3Fe alloys to improve their overall characteristics. To achieve the same, the selected alloy compositions were blended, compacted, and then sintered at 1500 degrees C for 75 min in H-2 atmosphere. It was observed that the addition of nano Y2O3 and GNP increases the sintered density of the WHAs. FESEM and EPMA analysis exhibit the uniform distribution of dispersoids in WHAs. It was noticed that the maximum compressive strength of 1985.6 MPa was obtained in 1 wt% Y2O3 incorporated W-0.7Ni-0.3Fe alloy, followed by Y2O3 + GNP, base alloy, GNP, and ZrB2 incorporated alloys. The maximum bulk hardness of similar to 347 HV was obtained in the Y2O3 + GNP incorporated WHAs. Overall, the combined incorporation of Y2O3 and GNP was effective in improving the densification, microstructure and mechanical properties of sintered W-based systems.