LAUSR

Abstract Nano-sized ZrC dispersion strengthened tungsten alloy (W-0.5wt%ZrC) rods with enhanced mechanical properties and superior high-temperature stability were fabricated by high temperature rotary swaging. The effects of swaging and annealing on the microstructure and mechanical properties of W-0.5wt%ZrC alloys were investigated. The as-swaged W-0.5%ZrC rod showed noticeable ductility at 200 °C with a total elongation of 4.2% and a tensile strength of 724 MPa, and at 500 °C the strength remains as high as 547 MPa and the total elongation is 28%. The ductile-to-brittle transition temperature (DBTT) is about 200 °C. The recrystallization start temperature of swaged W-0.5wt%ZrC is about 1500 °C, which is about 300 °C higher than that of rolled pure W. The possible mechanisms for the enhanced mechanical properties and thermal stability were discussed.