Critical Assessment of Two-Dimensional Methods for the Microstructural Characterization of Cemented Carbides

Cemented carbides, or hard metals, are ceramic–metal composites usually consisting of tungsten carbide particles bound by a cobalt-based alloy. They the backbone materials for tooling industry, as direct consequence outstanding range property combinations, depending on their effective microstructural assemblage, i.e., physical dimensions and relative content constitutive phases. Hence, reliable characterization becomes key metal grade selection quality control. This work aimed to assess practical two-dimensional methods most important one- two-phase properties cemented grain size, phase fraction, contiguity, binder mean free path. Three different methods—point, line, area analysis—were implemented characterize four microstructurally distinct grades. The images were acquired optical scanning electron microscopy, with latter through both secondary backscattered electrons. Results critically discussed comparing obtained values methodology. Inspection technique combinations finally ranked based accuracy, accessibility, operability considerations. line method was used analyze all properties, method, one-phase point only fraction. It found that combination microscopy analysis suitable inspection rapid estimation carbides above fine size. precise results achieved using electrons microscope.