Synthesis of Ti₃SiC₂ Phases and Consolidation of MAX/SiC Composites-Microstructure and Mechanical Properties

The article describes the Ti₃SiC₂ powder synthesis process. The influence of the molar ratio and two forms of carbon on the phase composition of the obtained powders was investigated. The synthesis was carried out using a spark plasma sintering (SPS) furnace. In addition, using the obtained powders, composites reinforced with SiC particles were produced. The obtained results showed no effect of the carbon form and a significant impact of annealing on the purity of the powders after synthesis. The composites were also consolidated using an SPS furnace at two temperatures of 1300 and 1400 °C. The tests showed low density and hardness for sinters from 1300 °C (maximum 3.97 g/cm³ and 447 HV5, respectively, for composite reinforced with 10% SiC). These parameters significantly increase for composites sintered at 1400 °C (maximum density 4.43 g/cm³ and hardness 1153 HV5, for Ti₃AlC₂-10% SiC). In addition, the crack propagation analysis showed mechanisms typical for granular materials and laminates.