Functional composite metal for WC-dispersed 304L stainless steel matrix composite with alloying by direct laser: Microstructure, hardness and fracture toughness

This study examined changes in the properties of 304L stainless steel powder following the addition of tungsten carbide (WC) at 10, 20, 30, and 40 wt.%. The testing results for hardness, toughness, and microstructure indicate that the formation of complex precipitate phases (i.e., intermetallics and carbides) improved the mechanical properties of the stainless steel. Our findings provide insight into the role played by the processing conditions of laser alloying with regard to the resulting composition and hardness of the 304L SS-WC alloy as well as solidification characteristics.