Synthesis of WC Nanosized Powder by the Plasma Arc Discharge Process

WC nanosized powders are synthesized by the plasma arc discharge process and annealing under an inert (Ar) atmosphere. The high temperature used during discharging at local region causes the work-piece and electrode to melt and evaporate. The melted tungsten on the arc discharge electrode and carbon arising from decomposition CH4 gas forms WC1-x nanosized powders. The WC1-x phase is encapsulated in a amorphous carbon shell. The WC1-x nanosized particles are annealed at 1200~1400°C under an Ar atmosphere. The WC1-x nanosized powder is transformed to the W2C phase, and then it becomes WC above at 1400°C.