This work presents the methodology studied for the formation of a tantalum carbide layer in a graphite surface. The methodology consists of the immersion of the graphite tubes in aqueous suspensions of tantalum and tantalum oxide, with subsequent thermal treatment at 2100 °C. Poly (vinyl alcohol - PVOH) was used in order to facilitate the adherence of the tantalum composite on the tube surface. Parameters such as concentration and temperature of the suspension and the temperature and atmosphere of the thermal treatment were investigated in order to obtain an homogeneous and adherent layer of tantalum carbide. The tantalum carbide layer was characterized using scanning electron microscopy and analysis of phases by X-- ray diffraction.
electrodeposition; graphite; tantalum carbide
