Purpose: Sinter one sample of each of TiC, VC, Cr3C2, ZrC, NbC, Mo2C, TaC, and WC on 5x10 mm tantalum foil to see if the samples are usable for SEM.

Samples were prepared using a solution of PEG (2.56 g), PVB (2.45 g), paraffin oil (1.12 g), MEK (15 mL), and EtOH (23 mL). Slurries made using 0.0013 mol of each carbide with ~230 uL of the solution. Applied via paintbrush onto 5x10 mm tantalum foil. 

The samples were placed directly on the target boat, no graphite layer between. We will check to see if the tantalum foil fuses to the boat or not.

Currently (May 29th), the chamber is still pumping down. John and I will continue the procedure tomorrow.