The nitriding behavior of silicon/additives mixture with varied composition was investigated by focusing on the catalytic effect of sintering additives (Y2O3 and Al2O3) and diluents (Si3N4). While sintering additives have originally been mixed to form a liquid phase to promote both densification and grain growth during post-sintering, it was revealed that the addition of Y2O3 enhances the nitriding reaction by eliminating the SiO2 and Si3N4 layer on the surface of silicon particles. Further, a synergistic effect resulting in an increased nitridation was verified by concurrent addition of sintering additives and diluents. The contribution of each component of the compact to the promoted nitriding reaction was elucidated in quasi in-situ manner by the combination of phase analysis and thermogravimetric analysis.