Reaction‐Rate‐Limiting Steps in Carbothermal Reduction Processes

The production of β‐sialon (Si3A1303N5) and nonoxidic powders by carbothermal reduction of oxides is discussed. Special attention is paid to the rate‐determining steps in the conversion process performed in a packed‐bed reactor. It is shown that powders with specific surface area >10 m 2 /g can be produced by the correct choice of pellet size, gas flow rate, temperature, and raw material.