Dissipative Belousov–Zhabotinsky reaction in unstable micropyretic synthesis

Unstable oscillation in high temperature micropyretic synthesis is thought to result from a higher Lewis number. The temperature oscillatory further results in banded structures. Recently, the finding of intermediate phases, which also result in the formation of the banded structures, implied the possible occurrence of Belousov–Zhabotinsky (BZ) reactions. In this study, a relationship is inferred between dissipative reactions and intermetallics in micropyretically synthesized equimolar NiAl alloys. Time-lapse X-ray reports, microstructural studies and process conditions are correlated in order to understand the micro-kinetics of the synthesis process. Dissipative oscillatory chemical reactions, that is, Belousov–Zhabotinsky reactions, are proposed as one synthesis mechanism which leads to the formation of the observed intermetallics in micropyretic synthesis.