Powder Metallurgy Processed W-Cu Composites: A Microstructural Study

This study assesses the microstructure and elemental concentration of W–Cu composites with fixed ratios of tungsten and copper (W80Cu20, W70Cu30, W60Cu40) using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS). Backscatter electron mapping through SEM shows the dispersion and characteristics of the tungsten and copper-phase carried in the matrix, whereas EDS characterizes semiquantitatively and identifies the W, Cu, C, and O content in the compositions. The distribution of which portrays an increased Cu content as well as reduced W content with increased Cu ratio, with minor carbon and oxygen present, possibly pre-process contamination. The results obtained here are in line with previous works established from this research that SEM and EDS are suitable methods of analyzing phase distribution, homogeneity and elemental composition in W–Cu composites for enhancing the processing parameters and mechanical and functional properties. Thus, the combination of SEM and EDS allows a deep investigation of the influence of the microstructure on the properties of W–Cu composites and accomplishments of their intended aims and tasks in the frame of modern science and engineering.