Effects of Y 2 O 3 and Cr 3 C 2 on the microstructure and properties of WC–Co–Ni alloy prepared by microwave sintering

WC–9Co–1Ni cemented carbides with Y 2 O 3 and Cr 3 C 2 additives were obtained through powder metallurgy and microwave sintering. The effects of additives on the microstructure and properties were investigated by scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, mechanical property tests and electrochemical tests. The results showed that the grain size of WC decreased from 558 nm to 443/450 nm after adding Y 2 O 3 or Cr 3 C 2 additives, respectively. The hardness and transverse rupture strength of alloys were greatly enhanced when the contents of Y 2 O 3 or Cr 3 C 2 additives were 0.50 wt.%. Compared with the WC–9Co–1Ni cemented carbide, the wear rate of cemented carbide with 0.50 wt.% Y 2 O 3 or Cr 3 C 2 was reduced by 31.48% and 31.65%, respectively. Meanwhile, both Y 2 O 3 and Cr 3 C 2 additives could effectively improve the anti-corrosion performance of WC–9Co–1Ni cemented carbide.