Sol-Gel Derived Fe-Rich Matrix Composites Having Precipitated WC

Abstract

SEM image of a sol–gel derived composite presenting WC grains (grey phase) embedded in a Fe binder matrix (dark phase). The crystalline composites are prepared from amorphous sol–gel masses containing W, Fe alkoxides and extra carbon. WC and Fe precipitate in-situ out of the W[BOND]C[BOND]Fe[BOND]O masses during a two steps heating process under a flux of H2/Ar up to 600–800 °C and then under vacuum up to 1250 °C.