Complete Report - University of New South Wales

Figure 4.3.2.25: Properly deglazed pits with palladium
activation: a) PCD and b) BCD.
(a)
(b)
The palladium activated pit samples were sintered at
350°C for 10 minutes and the un-reacted nickel was
removed. Figure 4.3.2.26 shows a much improved
interface in the BCD pits with palladium activation, and the roughening of the surface indicates
that a thin, fairly uniform layer of silicide has been formed at the interface. The morphology of
the PCD interface is also improved by the inclusion of the palladium activation process.
Figure 4.3.2.26: Pits on the same sample as that shown
in Figure 4.3.2.23 after sintering and nickel removal.
(a)
(b)
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