Deformation and fracture behavior of Co-containing tungsten alloy

The influence of strain rate on the fracture behaviour of sintered Co-containing tungsten heavy alloy is examined using optical, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and fine- probe energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) microanalysis techniques. The Co addition has improved the strength of tungsten alloy. However the mechanical properties of the alloy varied with the strain rate. It was revealed that the facetting of tungsten grains is attributed to the microsegregation and sintering process. Evidence of predominantly brittle fracture observed at different strain rate is presented and compared to elucidate the fracture behaviour of the alloy