Simultaneous synthesis and consolidation of nanostructured TaSi2–Si3N4 composite by pulsed current activated combustion

Dense nanostructured 4TaSi2–Si3N4 composite was synthesized by pulsed current activated combustion synthesis (PCACS) method within 3 min in one step from mechanically activated powders of TaN and Si. Simultaneous combustion synthesis and densification were accomplished under the combined effects of a pulsed current and mechanical pressure. Highly dense 4TaSi2–Si3N4 composite with relative density of up to 98% was produced under simultaneous application of a 60 MPa pressure and the pulsed current. The average grain size and mechanical properties (hardness and fracture toughness) of the composite were investigated.