Deformation characteristics of WC micropillars

The mechanical response under nano-compression test of single crystal tungsten-carbide (WC) micropillars prepared by focused ion beam from oriented facets of WC grains in WC–Co system was investigated. Depth-sensing indentation and scanning electron microscopy were used for the micro-mechanical test and damage characterization, respectively. A strong influence of the orientation on Young's modulus, yield and rupture stress values was found, with higher values for pillars with axes orientated perpendicularly to the basal plane of the WC grains.