SIALON DERIVED FROM CLAY TO PROVIDE AN ECONOMICAL REFRACTORY MATERIAL.

Sialon is a solid solution of silicon nitride and aluminum oxide that can be cold pressed and sintered. Its name is an acronym of the elements in the solid solution. The usual method of obtaining Sialon is by sintering a mixture of silicon nitride (obtained from silicon) and alumina at 1700 degree C. This article describes an easier and inexpensive route to production of sintered Sialon, by using clay and carbon (which can be coal) as the raw materials. Ball clays, kaolins and halloysite have been used with equal success. Sialon made from clay can withstand 1800 degree C for short periods of time in an oxidizing temperature without melting.