Tungsten carbide is a compound composed of tungsten and carbon with the molecular formula WC and a molecular weight of 195.85. It is a black hexagonal crystal, with metallic luster, and its hardness is similar to that of diamond, and it is a good conductor of electricity and heat. Tungsten carbide is insoluble in water, hydrochloric acid and sulfuric acid, and is easily soluble in the mixed acid of nitric acid and hydrofluoric acid. Pure tungsten carbide is brittle, and if a small amount of titanium, cobalt and other metals are added, brittleness can be reduced. Tungsten carbide, which is used as a steel cutting tool, is often added with titanium carbide, tantalum carbide or a mixture of them to improve the anti-knock ability. Tungsten carbide is chemically stable. Tungsten carbide powder is used in cemented carbide production materials.
