Properties of Si3N4/SiC composites produced via spark plasma sintering

Abstract

Si3N4 ceramics reinforced with SiC particles were fabricated via spark plasma sintering at 1650°C under 40 MPa pressure. AlN and Y2O3 were used as sintering additives. The purpose of this work was to study the influence of SiC powders on the properties of Si3N4/SiC composites. The microstructure, phase composition, and mechanical properties of the composites were investigated. It was found that mechanical properties of the composites improved, the α–β transformation and grain growth of β-Si3N4 were inhibited and the equiaxed grain increased due to the increase of SiC(w).