Combustion Synthesis of TiC Powders from Ilmenite Mineral and Activated Carbon

Abstract

Titanium carbide (TiC) powder was combustion-synthesized in argon from mineral ilmenite and activated carbon (C) using magnesium (Mg) as a fuel. The reactant powders were taken at FeTiO3 : C : Mg molar ratios of 1 : 1 : 3 and 1 : 1.5 : 4.5. The as-combusted products were leached with 1 M HCl at 80 or 90°C to remove byproducts and impurities. Best results (fewer impurities) were obtained for combustion products derived from FeTiO3 : C : Mg green mixtures taken at a molar ratio of 1 : 1.5 : 4.5 and subjected to acid leaching at 90°C for 150 min. After leaching, agglomerated TiC particles have a size of around 100 nm. Ilmenite mineral can be recommended as an alternative source of TiO2 for fabrication of titanium carbide powders.