Microstructural features and properties of the nano-crystalline SiC/BN(C) composite ceramic prepared from the mechanically alloyed SiBCN powder

► As-milled SiBCN powder consists of spherical agglomerates, 6.5 ± 5.4 μm in size. ► Hot pressed SiC/BN(C) ceramic consists of nano β-SiC, α-SiC and BN(C). ► Turbostratic BN(C) is composed of t-carbon, t-BN and B-doped t-carbon layers. ► BN(C) retards grain growth and is responsible for the fine grains. ► The temperature and pressure greatly affect the ceramic density and properties.