Bacterial colonization of orthopedic implants is one of the leading causes of failure and clinical complexities for load-bearing metallic implants. Topical or systemic administration of antibiotics may not offer the m...Bacterial colonization of orthopedic implants is one of the leading causes of failure and clinical complexities for load-bearing metallic implants. Topical or systemic administration of antibiotics may not offer the most efficient defense against colonization, especially in the case of secondary infection, leading to surgical removal of implants and in some cases even limbs. In this study, laser powder bed fusion was implemented to fabricate Ti3Al2V alloy by a 1:1 weight mixture of CpTi and Ti6Al4V powders. Ti-Tantalum(Ta)–Copper(Cu) alloys were further analyzed by the addition of Ta and Cu into the Ti3Al2V custom alloy. The biological,mechanical, and tribo-biocorrosion properties of Ti3Al2V alloy were evaluated. A 10 wt.% Ta(10Ta) and 3 wt.% Cu(3Cu) were added to the Ti3Al2V alloy to enhance biocompatibility and impart inherent bacterial resistance. Additively manufactured implants were investigated for resistance against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus strains of bacteria for up to 48 h. A 3 wt.% Cu addition to Ti3Al2V displayed improved antibacterial efficacy, i.e.78%–86% with respect to CpTi. Mechanical properties for Ti3Al2V–10Ta–3Cu alloy were evaluated, demonstrating excellent fatigue resistance, exceptional shear strength, and improved tribological and tribo-biocorrosion characteristics when compared to Ti6Al4V. In vivo studies using a rat distal femur model revealed improved early-stage osseointegration for alloys with10 wt.% Ta addition compared to CpTi and Ti6Al4V. The 3 wt.% Cu-added compositions displayed biocompatibility and no adverse infammatory response in vivo. Our results establish the Ti3Al2V–10Ta–3Cu alloy’s synergistic effect on improving both in vivo biocompatibility and microbial resistance for the next generation of load-bearing metallic implants.展开更多
Hf-based carbides are highly desirable candidate materials for oxidizing environments above 2000℃.However,the static oxidation behavior at their potential service temperatures remains unclear.To fill this gap,the sta...Hf-based carbides are highly desirable candidate materials for oxidizing environments above 2000℃.However,the static oxidation behavior at their potential service temperatures remains unclear.To fill this gap,the static oxidation behavior of(Hf,Ti)C and the effect of Ti substitutions were investigated in air at 2500℃ under an oxygen partial pressure of 4.2 kPa.After oxidation for 2000 s,the thickness of the oxide layer on the surface of(Hf,Ti)C bulk ceramic is reduced by 62.29%compared with that on the HfC monocarbide surface.The dramatic improvement in oxidation resistance is attributed to the unique oxide layer structure consisting of various crystalline oxycarbides,HfO_(2),and carbon.The Ti-rich oxycarbide((Ti,Hf)C_(x)O_(y))dispersed within HfO_(2) formed the major structure of the oxide layer.A coherent boundary with lattice distortion existed at the HfO2/(Ti,Hf)C_(x)O_(y) interface along the(111)crystal plane direction,which served as an effective oxygen diffusion barrier.The Hfrich oxycarbide((Hf,Ti)CxOy)together with(Ti,Hf)C_(x)O_(y),HfO_(2),and precipitated carbon constituted a dense transition layer,ensuring favorable bonding between the oxide layer and the matrix.The Ti content affects the oxidation resistance of(Hf,Ti)C by determining the oxide layer's phase distribution and integrity.展开更多
Dear Editor,We read with great interest the article by Tan et al.titled“Accelerated fracture healing by osteogenic Ti45Nb implants through the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway”[1].This research thoroughly examines the bon...Dear Editor,We read with great interest the article by Tan et al.titled“Accelerated fracture healing by osteogenic Ti45Nb implants through the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway”[1].This research thoroughly examines the bone-forming capabilities of the Ti45Nb alloy.The in vitro studies revealed that the Ti45Nb alloy enhances the osteogenic differentiation of MC3T3-E1 cells more effectively than Ti6Al4V alloy controls,showing no noticeable cytotoxic effects.展开更多
Magnesium(Mg)stands out in temporary biomaterial applications due to its biocompatibility,biodegradability,and low Young’s modulus.However,controlling its corrosion through next-generation polymer-based functional co...Magnesium(Mg)stands out in temporary biomaterial applications due to its biocompatibility,biodegradability,and low Young’s modulus.However,controlling its corrosion through next-generation polymer-based functional coatings is crucial due to the rapid degradation behavior of Mg.In this study,the function of 2D lamellar Ti_(3)C_(2)T_(x)(MXene)in Hydroxyapatite(HA)and Halloysite nanotube(HNT)hybrid coatings in biodegradable poly-(lactic acid)(PLA)was investigated.The morphological and structural characterizations of the coatings on Mg were revealed through HRTEM,XPS,SEM-EDX,XRD,FTIR,and contact angle analyses/tests.Electrochemical in vitro corrosion tests(OCP,PDS,and EIS-Nyquist)were conducted for evaluate corrosion resistance under simulated body fluid(SBF)conditions.The bioactivity of the coatings in SBF have been revealed in accordance with the ISO 23,317 standard.Finally,antibacterial disk diffusion tests were conducted to investigate the functional effect of MXene in coatings.It has been determined that the presence of MXene in the coating increased not only surface wettability(131°,85°,77°,and 74°for uncoated,pH,PHH,and PHH/MXene coatings,respectively)but also increased corrosion resistance(1857.850,42.357,1.593,and 0.085×10^(-6),A/cm^(2) for uncoated,pH,PHH,and PHH/MXene coatings,respectively).It has been proven that the in vitro bioactivity of PLA-HA coatings is further enhanced by adding HNT and MXene,along with SEM morphologies after SBF.Finally,2D lamellar MXene-filled coating exhibits antibacterial behavior against both E.coli and S.aureus bacteria.展开更多
AIM:To evaluate refractive outcomes and corneal astigmatism changes after Toric implantable collamer lens with a central port(V4c T-ICL)implantation over 1y of follow-up.METHODS:A retrospective study was performed inc...AIM:To evaluate refractive outcomes and corneal astigmatism changes after Toric implantable collamer lens with a central port(V4c T-ICL)implantation over 1y of follow-up.METHODS:A retrospective study was performed including 50 eyes of 50 patients that underwent V4c T-ICL implantation.Uncorrected(UDVA)and corrected(CDVA)distance visual acuities,refraction,refractive and corneal astigmatism changes and corneal coupling correction were evaluated preoperatively,1 and 12mo postoperatively.Vector analysis was used for astigmatism changes.Coefficient of adjustment(CAdj)was calculated for corneal coupling analysis.RESULTS:The mean UDVA achieved was 0.03 logMAR at 1mo and remained unchanged throughout the whole follow-up(P=0.193).At the last visit,84%of the eyes achieved a CDVA of 0.00 logMAR or better.Regarding spherical equivalent refraction(SEQ),96%of eyes were ranges of±1.00 D and 84%of them within±0.50 D.Also,94%of eyes had a remaining refractive cylinder within±1.00 D and 78%of them within±0.50 D.Both,SEQ and refractive cylinder,remain stable over the postoperative follow-up(P=1.000 and P=0.660,respectively).In terms of surgically induced astigmatism(SIA),no statistically significant differences were found over the follow-up(P=0.102)and under correction was found with a correction index lower than the unit at each visit.A keratometric astigmatism induced of 0.59±0.53(vector mean:0.26×73º)D was reached at the last visit.No significant changes in terms of corneal astigmatism orientation were reported over post-surgery visits(P=0.129 and P=0.097 at 1 and 12mo respectively).No clinical significance was found for CAdj on with-the-rule astigmatism.No postoperative complications resulting from the surgery were found.CONCLUSION:Refractive outcomes suggest that the V4c T-ICL implantation for correction of myopic astigmatism was satisfactory in terms of effectiveness,safety,and stability during 1y of follow-up.Corneal astigmatism induced by the incision around 0.5 D is achieved according to the remaining refractive cylinder found at one-year post-surgery.Corneal coupling analysis results in no unexpected spherical change.展开更多
WC-10Co cemented carbides with finer WC and narrower grain size distributions are produced by using(Cr,V)_(2)(C,N)as grain growth inhibitors.As a result,with the increase of(Cr_(0.9),V_(0.1))_(2)(C,N)and(V_(0.9),Cr_(0...WC-10Co cemented carbides with finer WC and narrower grain size distributions are produced by using(Cr,V)_(2)(C,N)as grain growth inhibitors.As a result,with the increase of(Cr_(0.9),V_(0.1))_(2)(C,N)and(V_(0.9),Cr_(0.1))_(2)(C,N),the grains size of WC and mean free path of Co phase decrease,and adjacency of WC increases.Refinement and homogenization of grains enhance the transverse rupture strength(TRS)and the hardness.Meanwhile,the deflection and bridging of cracks keep the fracture toughness at a respectable level.The WC-10Co-0.6(Cr_(0.9),V_(0.1))_(2)(C,N)-0.025(V_(0.9),Cr_(0.1))_(2)(C,N)cemented carbides exhibit excellent comprehensive mechanical properties with the TRS of 4602.6 MPa,hardness of 1835 kg/mm^(2),and fracture toughness of 10.39 MPa·m^(1/2),respectively.However,the large pores are caused by excess N larger than 0.03 wt%and deteriorates the mechanical properties.We provide a new approach to WC-Co cemented carbides preparation with a narrow grain size distribution by adding novel grain growth inhibitors.展开更多
In Africa, the prevalence of diabetes is escalating and remains a concern due to the numerous complications it causes. Vascular damage associated with diabetes leads to a prothrombotic state observed in diabetic indiv...In Africa, the prevalence of diabetes is escalating and remains a concern due to the numerous complications it causes. Vascular damage associated with diabetes leads to a prothrombotic state observed in diabetic individuals. Diabetes is a complex and multifactorial disease involving genetic components. With the aim of preventing complications and contributing to an efficient management of diabetes, we investigated genes likely to lead to a risk of thrombosis, in particular the C677T of MTHFR, G20210A of prothrombin, and R506Q of factor V Leiden in type 2 diabetics in Abidjan receiving ambulatory care. A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out on consenting type 2 diabetic patients. Mutation detection was carried out using the PCR-RFLP method employing restriction enzymes. Hemostasis tests (fibrinogen, D-dimers, fibrin monomers, and von Willebrand factor) were performed using citrate tubes on the Stage? Star Max automated system. Plasminogen activator inhibitor was assayed by ELISA method, and biochemical parameters were determined using the COBAS C311. The study population consisted of 45 diabetic patients, 51.1% of whom presented vascular complications, mainly neuropathy. Disturbances in hemostasis parameters were observed, with 15.5% of patients showing an increase in fibrin monomers. Mutation analysis revealed an absence of factor V mutation (factor V Leiden) and of G20210A mutation of the prothrombin gene. However, 15.6% of subjects had a heterozygous C677T mutation of MTHFR, with 57% of them being anemic. The exploration of biological and genetic factors associated with thrombotic risk is of significant interest in the optimal management of African type 2 diabetics.展开更多
E-learning platforms support education systems worldwide, transferring theoretical knowledge as well as soft skills. In the present study high-school pupils’, and adult students’ opinions were evaluated through a mo...E-learning platforms support education systems worldwide, transferring theoretical knowledge as well as soft skills. In the present study high-school pupils’, and adult students’ opinions were evaluated through a modern structured MOODLE interactive course, designed for the needs of the laboratory course “Automotive Systems”. The study concerns Greek secondary vocational education pupils aged 18 and vocational training adult students aged 20 to 50 years. The multistage, equal size simple random cluster sample was used as a sampling method. Pupils and adult students of each cluster completed structured 10-question questionnaires both before and after attending the course. A total of 120 questionnaires were collected. In general, our findings disclosed that the majority of pupils and adult students had significantly improved their knowledge and skills from using MOODLE. They reported strengthening conventional teaching, using the new MOODLE technology. The satisfaction indices improved quite, with the differences in their mean values being statistically significant.展开更多
Effects of VC/Cr3C2 on the microstructure and mechanical properties of Ti（C,N）-based cermets were studied. The microstructure was investigated by means of optical microscopy, X-ray diffractometry as well as scanning...Effects of VC/Cr3C2 on the microstructure and mechanical properties of Ti（C,N）-based cermets were studied. The microstructure was investigated by means of optical microscopy, X-ray diffractometry as well as scanning electron microscopy in combination with energy dispersive spectrometry. Mechanical properties, such as transverse rupture strength, hardness and fracture toughness, were measured. The results show that there are black core-grey rim structure and white core-grey rim structure in the microstructure. The grains become fine due to the VC/Cr3C2, and the grains of cermet added with 0.75VC/0.25Cr3C2 are refined most remarkably. The black core becomes finer with the increase of VC addition and rim phase becomes thicker with the decrease of Cr3C2 addition. The porosity increases with the increase of VC addition in VC/Cr3C2. Compared with the cermet free of VC/Cr3C2, the transverse rupture strength and hardness of cermets with VC/Cr3C2 are both improved, and the maximum values are both found for the cermet with 0.25VC/0.75Cr3C2. The fracture toughness can be effectively promoted by adding VC/Cr3C2 with an appropriate ratio of VC to Cr3C2, and the maximum value is found for the cermet with 0.5VC/0.5Cr3C2.展开更多
基金supported by the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases of the National Institutes of Health under Award Numbers R01 AR067306 and R01 AR078241。
文摘Bacterial colonization of orthopedic implants is one of the leading causes of failure and clinical complexities for load-bearing metallic implants. Topical or systemic administration of antibiotics may not offer the most efficient defense against colonization, especially in the case of secondary infection, leading to surgical removal of implants and in some cases even limbs. In this study, laser powder bed fusion was implemented to fabricate Ti3Al2V alloy by a 1:1 weight mixture of CpTi and Ti6Al4V powders. Ti-Tantalum(Ta)–Copper(Cu) alloys were further analyzed by the addition of Ta and Cu into the Ti3Al2V custom alloy. The biological,mechanical, and tribo-biocorrosion properties of Ti3Al2V alloy were evaluated. A 10 wt.% Ta(10Ta) and 3 wt.% Cu(3Cu) were added to the Ti3Al2V alloy to enhance biocompatibility and impart inherent bacterial resistance. Additively manufactured implants were investigated for resistance against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus strains of bacteria for up to 48 h. A 3 wt.% Cu addition to Ti3Al2V displayed improved antibacterial efficacy, i.e.78%–86% with respect to CpTi. Mechanical properties for Ti3Al2V–10Ta–3Cu alloy were evaluated, demonstrating excellent fatigue resistance, exceptional shear strength, and improved tribological and tribo-biocorrosion characteristics when compared to Ti6Al4V. In vivo studies using a rat distal femur model revealed improved early-stage osseointegration for alloys with10 wt.% Ta addition compared to CpTi and Ti6Al4V. The 3 wt.% Cu-added compositions displayed biocompatibility and no adverse infammatory response in vivo. Our results establish the Ti3Al2V–10Ta–3Cu alloy’s synergistic effect on improving both in vivo biocompatibility and microbial resistance for the next generation of load-bearing metallic implants.
基金This work was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China grant numbers[52072410].
文摘Hf-based carbides are highly desirable candidate materials for oxidizing environments above 2000℃.However,the static oxidation behavior at their potential service temperatures remains unclear.To fill this gap,the static oxidation behavior of(Hf,Ti)C and the effect of Ti substitutions were investigated in air at 2500℃ under an oxygen partial pressure of 4.2 kPa.After oxidation for 2000 s,the thickness of the oxide layer on the surface of(Hf,Ti)C bulk ceramic is reduced by 62.29%compared with that on the HfC monocarbide surface.The dramatic improvement in oxidation resistance is attributed to the unique oxide layer structure consisting of various crystalline oxycarbides,HfO_(2),and carbon.The Ti-rich oxycarbide((Ti,Hf)C_(x)O_(y))dispersed within HfO_(2) formed the major structure of the oxide layer.A coherent boundary with lattice distortion existed at the HfO2/(Ti,Hf)C_(x)O_(y) interface along the(111)crystal plane direction,which served as an effective oxygen diffusion barrier.The Hfrich oxycarbide((Hf,Ti)CxOy)together with(Ti,Hf)C_(x)O_(y),HfO_(2),and precipitated carbon constituted a dense transition layer,ensuring favorable bonding between the oxide layer and the matrix.The Ti content affects the oxidation resistance of(Hf,Ti)C by determining the oxide layer's phase distribution and integrity.
文摘Dear Editor,We read with great interest the article by Tan et al.titled“Accelerated fracture healing by osteogenic Ti45Nb implants through the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway”[1].This research thoroughly examines the bone-forming capabilities of the Ti45Nb alloy.The in vitro studies revealed that the Ti45Nb alloy enhances the osteogenic differentiation of MC3T3-E1 cells more effectively than Ti6Al4V alloy controls,showing no noticeable cytotoxic effects.
文摘Magnesium(Mg)stands out in temporary biomaterial applications due to its biocompatibility,biodegradability,and low Young’s modulus.However,controlling its corrosion through next-generation polymer-based functional coatings is crucial due to the rapid degradation behavior of Mg.In this study,the function of 2D lamellar Ti_(3)C_(2)T_(x)(MXene)in Hydroxyapatite(HA)and Halloysite nanotube(HNT)hybrid coatings in biodegradable poly-(lactic acid)(PLA)was investigated.The morphological and structural characterizations of the coatings on Mg were revealed through HRTEM,XPS,SEM-EDX,XRD,FTIR,and contact angle analyses/tests.Electrochemical in vitro corrosion tests(OCP,PDS,and EIS-Nyquist)were conducted for evaluate corrosion resistance under simulated body fluid(SBF)conditions.The bioactivity of the coatings in SBF have been revealed in accordance with the ISO 23,317 standard.Finally,antibacterial disk diffusion tests were conducted to investigate the functional effect of MXene in coatings.It has been determined that the presence of MXene in the coating increased not only surface wettability(131°,85°,77°,and 74°for uncoated,pH,PHH,and PHH/MXene coatings,respectively)but also increased corrosion resistance(1857.850,42.357,1.593,and 0.085×10^(-6),A/cm^(2) for uncoated,pH,PHH,and PHH/MXene coatings,respectively).It has been proven that the in vitro bioactivity of PLA-HA coatings is further enhanced by adding HNT and MXene,along with SEM morphologies after SBF.Finally,2D lamellar MXene-filled coating exhibits antibacterial behavior against both E.coli and S.aureus bacteria.
文摘AIM:To evaluate refractive outcomes and corneal astigmatism changes after Toric implantable collamer lens with a central port(V4c T-ICL)implantation over 1y of follow-up.METHODS:A retrospective study was performed including 50 eyes of 50 patients that underwent V4c T-ICL implantation.Uncorrected(UDVA)and corrected(CDVA)distance visual acuities,refraction,refractive and corneal astigmatism changes and corneal coupling correction were evaluated preoperatively,1 and 12mo postoperatively.Vector analysis was used for astigmatism changes.Coefficient of adjustment(CAdj)was calculated for corneal coupling analysis.RESULTS:The mean UDVA achieved was 0.03 logMAR at 1mo and remained unchanged throughout the whole follow-up(P=0.193).At the last visit,84%of the eyes achieved a CDVA of 0.00 logMAR or better.Regarding spherical equivalent refraction(SEQ),96%of eyes were ranges of±1.00 D and 84%of them within±0.50 D.Also,94%of eyes had a remaining refractive cylinder within±1.00 D and 78%of them within±0.50 D.Both,SEQ and refractive cylinder,remain stable over the postoperative follow-up(P=1.000 and P=0.660,respectively).In terms of surgically induced astigmatism(SIA),no statistically significant differences were found over the follow-up(P=0.102)and under correction was found with a correction index lower than the unit at each visit.A keratometric astigmatism induced of 0.59±0.53(vector mean:0.26×73º)D was reached at the last visit.No significant changes in terms of corneal astigmatism orientation were reported over post-surgery visits(P=0.129 and P=0.097 at 1 and 12mo respectively).No clinical significance was found for CAdj on with-the-rule astigmatism.No postoperative complications resulting from the surgery were found.CONCLUSION:Refractive outcomes suggest that the V4c T-ICL implantation for correction of myopic astigmatism was satisfactory in terms of effectiveness,safety,and stability during 1y of follow-up.Corneal astigmatism induced by the incision around 0.5 D is achieved according to the remaining refractive cylinder found at one-year post-surgery.Corneal coupling analysis results in no unexpected spherical change.
基金Funded by the 2021 Strategic Cooperation Project between Sichuan University and The People's Government of Zigong(No.2021CDZG-1)Major Science and Technology Research Projects of Panxi,Sichuan Province(No.2022PXZB-04)。
文摘WC-10Co cemented carbides with finer WC and narrower grain size distributions are produced by using(Cr,V)_(2)(C,N)as grain growth inhibitors.As a result,with the increase of(Cr_(0.9),V_(0.1))_(2)(C,N)and(V_(0.9),Cr_(0.1))_(2)(C,N),the grains size of WC and mean free path of Co phase decrease,and adjacency of WC increases.Refinement and homogenization of grains enhance the transverse rupture strength(TRS)and the hardness.Meanwhile,the deflection and bridging of cracks keep the fracture toughness at a respectable level.The WC-10Co-0.6(Cr_(0.9),V_(0.1))_(2)(C,N)-0.025(V_(0.9),Cr_(0.1))_(2)(C,N)cemented carbides exhibit excellent comprehensive mechanical properties with the TRS of 4602.6 MPa,hardness of 1835 kg/mm^(2),and fracture toughness of 10.39 MPa·m^(1/2),respectively.However,the large pores are caused by excess N larger than 0.03 wt%and deteriorates the mechanical properties.We provide a new approach to WC-Co cemented carbides preparation with a narrow grain size distribution by adding novel grain growth inhibitors.
文摘In Africa, the prevalence of diabetes is escalating and remains a concern due to the numerous complications it causes. Vascular damage associated with diabetes leads to a prothrombotic state observed in diabetic individuals. Diabetes is a complex and multifactorial disease involving genetic components. With the aim of preventing complications and contributing to an efficient management of diabetes, we investigated genes likely to lead to a risk of thrombosis, in particular the C677T of MTHFR, G20210A of prothrombin, and R506Q of factor V Leiden in type 2 diabetics in Abidjan receiving ambulatory care. A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out on consenting type 2 diabetic patients. Mutation detection was carried out using the PCR-RFLP method employing restriction enzymes. Hemostasis tests (fibrinogen, D-dimers, fibrin monomers, and von Willebrand factor) were performed using citrate tubes on the Stage? Star Max automated system. Plasminogen activator inhibitor was assayed by ELISA method, and biochemical parameters were determined using the COBAS C311. The study population consisted of 45 diabetic patients, 51.1% of whom presented vascular complications, mainly neuropathy. Disturbances in hemostasis parameters were observed, with 15.5% of patients showing an increase in fibrin monomers. Mutation analysis revealed an absence of factor V mutation (factor V Leiden) and of G20210A mutation of the prothrombin gene. However, 15.6% of subjects had a heterozygous C677T mutation of MTHFR, with 57% of them being anemic. The exploration of biological and genetic factors associated with thrombotic risk is of significant interest in the optimal management of African type 2 diabetics.
文摘E-learning platforms support education systems worldwide, transferring theoretical knowledge as well as soft skills. In the present study high-school pupils’, and adult students’ opinions were evaluated through a modern structured MOODLE interactive course, designed for the needs of the laboratory course “Automotive Systems”. The study concerns Greek secondary vocational education pupils aged 18 and vocational training adult students aged 20 to 50 years. The multistage, equal size simple random cluster sample was used as a sampling method. Pupils and adult students of each cluster completed structured 10-question questionnaires both before and after attending the course. A total of 120 questionnaires were collected. In general, our findings disclosed that the majority of pupils and adult students had significantly improved their knowledge and skills from using MOODLE. They reported strengthening conventional teaching, using the new MOODLE technology. The satisfaction indices improved quite, with the differences in their mean values being statistically significant.
基金Project (090414185) supported by the Natural Science Foundation of Anhui Province, China
文摘Effects of VC/Cr3C2 on the microstructure and mechanical properties of Ti（C,N）-based cermets were studied. The microstructure was investigated by means of optical microscopy, X-ray diffractometry as well as scanning electron microscopy in combination with energy dispersive spectrometry. Mechanical properties, such as transverse rupture strength, hardness and fracture toughness, were measured. The results show that there are black core-grey rim structure and white core-grey rim structure in the microstructure. The grains become fine due to the VC/Cr3C2, and the grains of cermet added with 0.75VC/0.25Cr3C2 are refined most remarkably. The black core becomes finer with the increase of VC addition and rim phase becomes thicker with the decrease of Cr3C2 addition. The porosity increases with the increase of VC addition in VC/Cr3C2. Compared with the cermet free of VC/Cr3C2, the transverse rupture strength and hardness of cermets with VC/Cr3C2 are both improved, and the maximum values are both found for the cermet with 0.25VC/0.75Cr3C2. The fracture toughness can be effectively promoted by adding VC/Cr3C2 with an appropriate ratio of VC to Cr3C2, and the maximum value is found for the cermet with 0.5VC/0.5Cr3C2.
