SPS parameters influence on Ti3SiC2 formation from Si/TiC: Mechanical properties of the bulk materials

• Published in: Journal of alloys and compounds 2017-06, Vol.708, p.123-133
• Main Authors: Turki, Faten, Abderrazak, Houyem, Schoenstein, Frédéric, Abdellaoui, Mohieddine, Jouini, Noureddine
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Carbides; Mechanical properties; Spark plasma sintering parameters
• ISSN: 0925-8388; 1873-4669
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jallcom.2017.02.304

This paper reports on Ti3SiC2 formation, from 2Si/3TiC starting powders, using spark plasma sintering as a reactive process within the temperature range of 1250–1400 °C and for different holding times. The microstructure and mechanical properties of the bulk materials were studied as a function of temperature and holding time under a constant pressure of 60 MPa. The highest Ti3SiC2 conversion (87 wt%) was achieved for a temperature of 1400 °C during 20 min. At these optimum conditions, the relative density was higher than 99%. The Young's modulus, the Vickers hardness and the compressive yield strength of the corresponding sample were: 325 GPa, 4.9 GPa and 995 MPa, respectively. [Display omitted] •Si/TiC was used for Ti3SiC2 synthesis by using reactive spark plasma sintering.•Optimum sintering conditions for Ti3SiC2 formation were 1400 °C, 20 min and 60 MPa.•The purity of Ti3SiC2 was as high as 87 wt%.•The fully dense compact had an interesting mechanical behaviors.