One step synthesis of dense MoSi 2–SiC composite by high-frequency induction heated combustion and its mechanical properties

Abstract

Dense MoSi 2–SiC composite was synthesized by high-frequency induction heated combustion synthesis method within 2 min in one step from elemental powders of Mo, Si and C. Simultaneous combustion synthesis and densification were carried out under the combined effect of an induced current and mechanical pressure. Highly dense MoSi 2–SiC with relative density of up to 98% was produced under simultaneous application of a 60 MPa pressure and the induced current. The average grain size of MoSi 2 and SiC were about 3.5 and 1.5 μm, respectively. And minor amount of Mo 5Si 3C was present. The fracture toughness and hardness values obtained were 4.8 MPa m 1/2 and 1410 kg/mm 2, respectively.