A novel method for synthesis of β–Sialon/Ti(C, N) composites using nitridation of Ti3SiC2 powder

In this investigation, we have employed a novel approach to fabricate β–Sialon/Ti(C, N) composites through the nitridation treatment of Ti 3 SiC 2 powder. At temperatures ranging from 1373 to 1773 K, the reaction process was subjected to a comprehensive analysis to explore the transformation of phase and microstructure. The findings unequivocally highlight the influence of α–Al 2 O 3 presence and the high specific surface area of Ti 3 SiC 2 powder, resulting in distinctive phase and structural evolutions post nitridation, distinctly different from those observed in bulk Ti 3 SiC 2 . The β–Sialon/Ti(C, N) composites produced via this innovative method exhibit uniform local chemical composition and meticulous regulation of grain morphology. Moreover, the synthesis mechanism of β–Sialon/Ti(C, N) composites under nitrogen ambiance was thoroughly discussed. This straightforward approach has the potential for extensive–scale synthesis of β–Sialon/Ti(C, N) composites, offering promising avenues for their application in developing high–performance refractories or structural ceramics tailored to withstand severe high–temperature environments.