Title: Surface and subsurface deformation characteristics of cemented tungsten carbide under nanoscratching

Authors: Rudy Irwan; Han Huang

Addresses: School of Mechanical and Mining Engineering, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia ' School of Mechanical and Mining Engineering, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia

Abstract: Surface and subsurface deformation characteristics of cemented tungsten carbide during nanoscratching were systematically investigated. Nanoscratch tests were performed at various normal loads and different scratch velocities and the surface and subsurface after scratching were examined using scanning electron microscopy. The results indicated that the deformation of cemented tungsten carbide was significantly influenced by the microstructure of the material. The deformation of subsurface structure was caused by combination of plastic deformation of cobalt binders, relocation of tungsten carbide grains, fractures and chipping.

Keywords: surface deformation; subsurface deformation; cemented tungsten carbide; nanoscratching; microstructure; fracture mechanisms; nanotechnology; nanoscratch tests; plastic deformation; cobalt binders; grain relocation; fracture; chipping.

DOI: 10.1504/IJSURFSE.2013.053698

International Journal of Surface Science and Engineering, 2013 Vol.7 No.2, pp.122 - 134

Received: 15 Mar 2012
Accepted: 14 May 2012

Published online: 02 Jul 2014 *

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