Microstructure and mechanical properties of a W-2wt.%Y2O3 composite produced by sintering and hot forging

A W-2Y2O3 composite has been developed by powder metallurgy methods in collaboration with the Plansee Company (Austria). The microstructure of the composite was analyzed using transmission electron microscopy and electron backscatter diffraction in scanning electron microscopy. The mechanical properties of the composite were analyzed using nano-indentation experiments, tensile and Charpy impact tests. It was mainly found that the composite exhibits ductile tensile behavior at 673-1273 K but weak Charpy impact properties, characterized by low absorbed energy values, at 773-1273 K.