Advanced WC–Co cermet composites with reinforcement of TiCN prepared by extended thermal plasma route

The synthesis of titanium carbonitride (TiCN) powders by thermal plasma using extended arc thermal plasma reactor and the effect of TiCN reinforcement for the development of advanced WC–Co cermets has been studied with respect to hardness and fracture toughness. These classes of materials are being investigated for future application in wear-resistant seals, cutting tools, etc. Metallurgical reactions and microstructural developments during sintering of cermets and functionally graded cemented carbonitrides are being investigated by analytical methods such as differential thermal analysis/thermo-gravimetric analysis, X-ray diffraction and analytical Scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. By an in-depth understanding of the complex phase reactions and the mechanisms that govern the sintering process and metallurgical reactions, new cermets and different types of functionally graded cemented carbonitrides with desired microstructures and properties have been attempted to develop. The significant improvement of micro-hardness was observed with optimal concentration of TiCN reinforcement addition in WC–Co system without sacrificing much fracture toughness value of the composite cermets.