One step synthesis of dense MoSi2-SiC composite by high-frequency induction heated combustion and its mechanical properties

Dense MoSi2-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 MoSi2-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 MoSi2 and SiC were about 3.5 and 1.5 μm, respectively. And minor amount of Mo5Si3C was present. The fracture toughness and hardness values obtained were 4.8 MPa m1/2 and 1410 kg/mm2, respectively.