Consolidation of nanostructured NbSi2–SiC composite synthesized by high-frequency induction heated combustion

Dense nanostructured NbSi2–SiC composite was synthesized by high-frequency induction heated combustion synthesis (HFIHCS) method within 2 min in one step from powders of NbC and 3Si. Simultaneous combustion synthesis and densification were accomplished under the combined effects of an induced current and mechanical pressure. Highly dense NbSi2–SiC with relative density of up to 99.8% were produced under simultaneous application of a 60 MPa pressure and the induced current. The average grain size and mechanical properties (hardness and fracture toughness) of the composite were investigated.