Combustion Synthesis of High Density ZrN/ZrSi Composite: Influence of ZrO Addition on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties.

In this study, a high-density ZrN/ZrSi composite reinforced with ZrO as an inert phase was synthesized under vacuum starting with a Zr-SiN-ZrO blend using combustion-synthesis methodology accompanied by compaction. The effects of ZrO additions (10-30 wt%) and compression loads (117-327 MPa) on the microstructure, porosity and hardness of the samples were studied. The process was monitored using XRD, SEM, EDS, porosity, density and hardness measurements.