Properties and consolidation of nanocrystalline WSi2-SiC composite from mechanically activated powders by pulsed current activated combustion synthesis

Abstract

Dense nanostructured WSi2-SiC composite was synthesized by pulsed current activated combustion synthesis method within 2 mm in one step from mechanically activated powders of WC and 3Si. Simultaneous combustion synthesis and consolidation were accomplished under the combined effects of a pulsed current and mechanical pressure. Highly dense WSi2-SiC with relative density of up to 99.8% was produced under simultaneous application of a 80 MPa pressure and the pulsed current. The average grain size and mechanical properties of the composite were investigated. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd and Techna Group S.r.l. All rights reserved.