Magnesium-Thermal SHS of Silicon Carbide Using Graphite Powders as a Carbon Source

Silicon carbide powders are produced by self-propagating high-temperature synthesis (SHS). Silicon dioxide, magnesium, and carbon are used as reactants, and the reduction reaction between them occurs in an argon or air atmosphere. Graphite powders of various particle sizes and V-1 colloidal graphite substance are used as carbon sources. The optimum SiC synthesis conditions are determined. The morphology of the powders is typical of silicon carbide synthesized by magnesium-thermal SHS. X-ray diffraction data indicate the predominance of the cubic modification of silicon carbide (β-SiC) in the synthesized product.