APT analysis of WC–Co based cemented carbides

A method for quickly producing sharp and site-specific atom probe specimens from WC–Co based cemented carbides was developed using a combination of electropolishing, controlled back-polishing and FIB milling. Also, a method for measuring the amount of segregated atoms to an interface between two phases with a big difference in field needed for field evaporation was developed. Using atom probe tomography, the interface chemistry of WC/WC grain boundaries, WC/(M,W)C phase boundaries and WC/binder phase boundaries was analysed. In addition, the transition metal solubility in WC was determined.

Research highlights
► We develop a method for producing specimens from WC–Co based cemented carbides.
► Measure segregated atoms to an interface between phases with different field evaporation field.
► The interface chemistry in cemented carbides.
► The transition metal solubility in WC.