LAUSR

Abstract A novel nanostructured cemented carbide formed from WC-5%Co-20%Ni-based brazing alloy is described. During sintering, the Ni-brazing alloy is infiltrated into a green compact of WC-5%Co at 1050–1100 °C for 2–60 min. Perfect wetting behavior and a zero contact angle are achieved after only 40 s. Relative densities of 98.5% and 100% and microhardness values of above 1500HV1 and 1800HV1 are obtained after 2 and 30 min, respectively. A change in mean particle size of 550–650 nm in the precursor to a bimodal distribution of 350–400 nm and 10–20 nm is explained by a solution/reprecipitation mechanism.