The effect of Cr on the properties and sintering of W skeleton as an activated element

► Cr and Cu elements with different mass ratios were selected to be the sintering activators. ► Tungsten skeletons were fabricated by the activated sintering technique at 1050 °C, 1150 °C and 1300 °C. ► With the sintering temperature being above the melting point of copper, the molten phase acts as carrier and promotes the formation of sintering necks of tungsten skeleton, the distribution of pores became more homogeneous. ► The compressive strength of W skeleton sintered at 1300 °C is enhanced to 283 MPa when the mass ratio of Cu to Cr is 60:1.