Synthesis and mechanisms of formation of bulk and supported tungsten carbides

The mechanism and the kinetics of the formation of tungsten carbides (WC, W2C) have been investigated. The synthesis of bulk pure-phase WC and WC nanoparticles supported on oxides and carbons was optimized. Reaction time, temperature, and tungsten loading are decisive parameters. Structural characterization was carried out by X-ray diffraction, N2 adsorption, thermal analysis, and electron microscopy. Different reaction mechanisms and kinetic parameters were identified for the formation of bulk and supported WC and for low and high temperature regimes.