A dense nanophase TiSi2-SiC composite was synthesized by a pulsed current activated combustion synthesis method within 2 minutes in one step from mechanically activated powders of TiC and Si. Simultaneous combustion synthesis and consolidation were accomplished under the combined effects of a pulsed current and mechanical pressure. Highly dense TiSi2-SiC with relative density of up to 97% was produced under simultaneous application of a 60 MPa pressure and the pulsed current. The average grain size and mechanical properties of the composite were investigated.
Keywords: Pulsed current activated combustion; Composite materials; Nanophase; Mechanical properties; TiSi2-SiC