Diffusion phenomena in the α-Si3N4-solid solution and 304L stainless steel static interaction couple

Compositional varieties of α-SiAlON a yttrium stabilized solid solution of α-Si3N4, were studied against 304L stainless steel through interacting couples prepared under hot pressing (1100–1300 °C, 1.8 MPa, 5 h) with respect to their chemical interactions and interface bonding formation. Interdiffusion of elements in both ceramic and steel side followed by the series of reactions those produced the interfaces between the joints were seen. Chemical behaviour of α′ vis-à-vis its compositional nitrogen content has been discussed.