Surface and subsurface deformation characteristics of cemented tungsten carbide under nanoscratching

Surface and subsurface deformation characteristics of cemented tungsten carbide during nanoscratching were systematically investigated. Nanoscratch tests were performed at various normal loads and different scratch velocities and the surface and subsurface after scratching were examined using scanning electron microscopy. The results indicated that the deformation of cemented tungsten carbide was significantly influenced by the microstructure of the material. The deformation of subsurface structure was caused by combination of plastic deformation of cobalt binders, relocation of tungsten carbide grains, fractures and chipping.