Fabrication of nanocrystalline TaSi2-SiC composite by high frequency induction heated combustion synthesis and its mechanical properties

Abstract

By the high frequency induction heated combustion synthesis (HFIHCS) method, dense nanostructured TaSi2-SiC composite was synthesized within 2 minutes and in a single step from powders of TaC and 3Si. Simultaneous combustion synthesis and densification were accomplished under the combined effects of an induced current and mechanical pressure. Highly dense TaSi2-SiC with relative density of up to 97% were produced under a 60MPa pressure and induced current. The average grain size and mechanical properties (hardness and fracture toughness) of the composite were investigated.