Elucidation of densification behavior of fine silicon powder particles covered with a native silica layer

Sintering of fine silicon powder covered with a native oxide, SiO2(s), has been studied under controlled atmosphere in a dilatometric apparatus. The densification kinetics is marked by the presence of two peaks on the shrinkage rate curve which are respectively attributed to the first and second stages of sintering. A complete description of sintering kinetics involving lattice diffusion and vapor transport is proposed to explain this unusual behavior.