Synthesis of TiN/Si3N4 composite powders by mechanically activated annealing

Abstract

TiN/Si3N4 composite powders were obtained by a process that combines the mechanical activation of titanium and silicon powders at room temperature through high-energy milling with an isothermal annealing in a nitrogen atmosphere to complete the synthetic reaction. Mechanical activation has allowed us to complete the synthesis at 1350 °C only. The β–Si3N4 content in the final powder tends to increase as the milling time is prolonged. The microstructure of the TiN/Si3N4 composite powders has a bimodal character composed of TiN and β–Si3N4 grains and α-Si3N4 nanowires. Diameters of the nanowires range from 10 to 70 nm.