Preparation of Composites by Nitro Aluminothermic Processes, over <i>β</i>–SiAlON Matrix in the SiAlON-SiC-Al₂O₃ System

Abstract

Goal: The goal of the research is preparation of SiAlON-containing composite through nitro aluminothermic processes, by the methods of reactive sintering and hot compaction. Method: The composite CH-6 was obtained by the method of reactive sintering, with further grinding and hot compression in vacuum furnace at 16000°C, under 30 MPa pressure and 10-12 min standing at the final temperature. Precursor was prepared in a thermostat at 150°C temperature by double compression. Pressure equaled to 20-25 MPa. Results: Physical-technical properties of specimens prepared via hot compaction were investigated. Mechanical strength at compression is 1940 MPa; mechanical strength at bending is 490 MPa; elastic module is 199.5 GPa, HV-11.6 GPa. X-Ray diffraction analysis, electron microscopic and X-ray diffraction Microspectral analysis were used to investigate composite microstructure and phase composition. Composite formulation was defined, the main phases of which were: β-SiAlON, corundum and silicium carbide. Conclusion: Composite CH-6 has been selected from the obtained composites, which is characterized by relatively high physical-technical properties: strength, density and hardness. Materials can be used for making high refractory articles, such as jackets to secure thermocouples, furnace bedding, cutting tools for metal and wood treatment, in rocket spatial technology and others.