Combustion synthesis of ultra-high-temperature solid solutions (ZrxNb1-x)B2. Part 2: Fine-tuning the mechanical properties and thermal conductivity of Zr–Nb–B diboride solid solutions for ultra-high temperature applications

Abstract

In Part 1 of this study, we investigated the macrokinetic parameters and phase formation mechanism in the combustion front of Zr–Nb–B mixtures. In the second part, we produced consolidated samples of solid solutions NbB2-(0.100%)ZrB2 by hot pressing the combustion-derived powders at 1900 °C. By measuring the crystallographic parameters, mechanical and thermophysical properties of the produced bulk samples, we obtained valuable insights into the behavior of the solid solutions. Our results pave the way for the application-specific fine-tuning of the mechanical properties and thermal conductivity of diboride solid solutions in the Zr–Nb–B system for ultra-high temperature applications. Our findings have significant implications for the development of advanced materials with outstanding performance in extreme environments.