W-La2O3 alloys and related composites: preparation technology, strengthening mechanism and future prospect

W-La 2 O 3 alloys and their composites exhibit high density, high melting point, good mechanical properties, excellent corrosion resistance, and oxidation resistance, making them widely used in national defense, aerospace, medical equipment, photovoltaic industry, and nuclear fusion fields. Due to its superior comprehensive properties and relatively low cost, La 2 O 3 has become a representative strengthening phase. This paper systematically reviews the preparation techniques, microstructures, and strengthening mechanisms of W-La 2 O 3 alloys and their composites. It summarizes the strengthening mechanisms of their properties at room temperature, and calls for future research to focus on a systematic evaluation of their properties at high temperatures. As a dispersion strengthening phase, La 2 O 3 significantly refines tungsten grains and enhances the physical and mechanical properties of tungsten alloys, primarily through the synergistic effects of grain boundary strengthening and oxide dispersion strengthening. Furthermore, the application of La 2 O 3 in composite systems such as W-Cu and W-Ni-Fe, along with their multi-mechanism synergistic strengthening effects, is discussed. Advances in microstructure control and properties of ultrafine tungsten alloy wires under advanced drawing processes are also summarized. Finally, current challenges in low-cost scalable preparation, performance in extreme service environments, and precise microstructure regulation are outlined, followed by prospects for the future development of W-La 2 O 3 alloys and their composites. This review may provide valuable references for the rational design and application of high-performance tungsten-based materials in the future.