In situ synthesis of TiC–TiB2–hBN–SiC composites through SHS

Ceramic composite powders with novel composition were synthesized in situ by the combination of two different reactions in one step. The high exothermicity of a reaction previously investigated for the synthesis of TiC–TiB2 powders was exploited to carry a second low exothermic reaction for the production of hBN–SiC composites in a self-propagation regime. The overall reaction exhibited sufficient exothermicity to self-sustain till completion. The process yielded high purity powders with tailored compositions suitable for the fabrication of ceramic and cermet materials characterized by wear resistance and self-lubricant behaviour shown by the presence of hBN intimately dispersed into the hard ceramic matrix.