The directional crystallization of W–B–C–d-transition metal alloys

Crystallization from the melt during arc melting and directional solidification during induction zone melting of pseudo-alloys tungsten carbide (WC)–MeB2 (Me—Ti, Zr, Cr) and a number of alloys of the W–B–C system (WB0.12C0.74; WB0.25C0.75; WB0.34C0.32; WB0.49C0.76; WB0.59C0.76; WB0.89C0.75; (WC)0.9B0.1) has been studied. It was shown that the alloys WC—80 mass%–ZrB2—20 mass% and WC—72 mass%–WB—28 mass% are the closest ones to eutectic compositions. Investigation of the microstructure of eutectic alloys in the WC–WB system by thin foil method has revealed that both matrix and reinforcing phases are single crystalline.