Liquid phase sintering of functionally graded WC-Co composites

A new approach for manufacturing functionally graded WC-Co composites via liquid phase sintering is presented. These functionally graded WC-Co composites possess a continuous gradient in cobalt content within their microstructure. The new approach involves creating a carbon gradient in the green state prior to liquid phase sintering. During liquid phase sintering continuous cobalt gradient develops while carbon content homogenizes.