Abstract
Dense Nb/Nb5Si3 composites were fabricated via spark plasma sintering technology using Nb, Si, and Al elemental powders as raw materials. The microstructures of the synthesised composites were analyzed through scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and electron probe microanalysis. The results show that the composites consisted of residual Nb particle phase and Nb5Si3 phase. The microstructure of the Nb/Nb5Si3in situ composites was evidently affected by Al addition, which prompted the formation of the Al3Nb10Si3 phase. In addition, the Rockwell hardness of the composites decreased with the increase in Al additions. The Rockwell hardness of Nb-20Si is 60HRC, which decreased to approximately 52.7 HRC when the Al content increased to 15 at%. The oxidation resistance of the Nb/Nb5Si3in situ composites significantly improved with the increase in Al addition.
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