Synthesis and Consolidation of Ternary Compound Ti₃SiC₂ from Green Compact of Mixed Powders

Abstract

Ternary compound Ti₃SiC₂ has been successfully synthesized and concurrently consolidated by sintering green compact of starting powder mixture. 3Ti/SiC/C powder mixture was compacted and heated in vacuum or in Ar atmosphere at temperatures from 1573 to 1773 K for a time period ranged from 2 to 6 hours. It has been found that either in vacuum or in Ar atmosphere the Ti₃SiC₂ content reached 100% in the surface layer. The growth of Ti₃SiC₂ in a layered manner on the surface of the sample was observed. It was also found that the sample sintered in Ar atmosphere is denser than those sintered in vacuum. After sintered in Ar atmosphere at 1773 K for 2 hours, the relative density of the compound reached 97%. Occurrence of liquid phase during sintering contributed to the densification of the compound.