Optimization of processing parameters for the synthesis of tungsten carbide (WC) nanoparticles through solvo thermal route

In order to manufacture cemented tungsten carbide nanomaterials efforts are being made to synthesize nano-WC powders by different techniques. The present work is an attempt to synthesize WC nanoparticles by thermo-chemical route where WO3 was reduced to nano-WC. During experimentation the reaction parameters were varied to optimize the processing variables for the formation of tungsten carbide (WC) nanoparticles. The reaction time 20 h for 36 ml acetone as a carbon source gives the maximum yield of WC. Phase identification of the product phase(s) was done by X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscope. Differential thermal analyzer and thermal gravimetric analysis were also done to study phase transformation and stability of the product phases. (C) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.