Fracture mechanics analysis of hardmetals by using artificial small-scale flaws machined at the surface through short-pulse laser ablation

Laser ablation has become an innovative treatment for cemented carbides, regarding edge rounding and surface modification, aiming to improve their tribomechanical performance. Meanwhile, the precision offered this technique also positioned it as effective mean generate micronotches used evaluation of mechanical properties in structural materials. However, similar approach not been attempted hardmetals; thus, becomes main objective work. Dimple-like elongated are introduced one fine-grained WC-11%wtCo grade. In doing so, laser processing parameters first optimized attain with appropriated geometry size, i.e. critical flaws identified broken pristine specimens. Success implemented is then validated through subsequent flexural testing, fractographic inspection fracture mechanics analysis results attained on samples containing micronotches, far laser-induced residual stresses taken into consideration. regard, found exhibit lower stresses, postulate themselves optimal option two micronotch types studied. The suitability shaping artificial small-scale opens a new route introducing controlled defects, alike those intrinsic or induced during service, key aspect further understanding damage tolerance issues carbides.