A novel method for preparing nano-NbC/Fe powder and nano-NbC particle reinforced cast low-carbon steel

• A novel method for preparing the nano-NbC/Fe composite powder was proposed.
• The nano-NbC particle about 50 nm packed by Fe powder was prepared.
• The nano-NbC particle reinforced steels were prepared.
• The microstructure as-casted of the steels is refined, and hardness increases.

A novel method of mechanical alloying and heat treatment for preparing the nano-NbC particles mixed with Fe powder was proposed, and the nano-NbC particle reinforced steels were prepared. The results show that the mechanical alloying and heat treatment are an effective method for preparing the nano-NbC particles. The nano-NbC particles can uniformly distribute in steels. Furthermore, the as-casted microstructure is refined remarkably, and hardness of the steels increases.