One step synthesis and densification of nanocrystalline TaSi2–Si3N4 composite from mechanically activated powders by high-frequency induction-heated combustion

Dense nanocrystalline 4TaSi2–Si3N4 composite was synthesized by high-frequency induction-heated combustion synthesis (HFIHCS) method within 1 min in one step from mechanically activated powders of TaN and Si. Simultaneous combustion synthesis and densification were accomplished under the combined effects of an induced current and mechanical pressure. Highly dense 4TaSi2–Si3N4 composite with relative density of up to 99% was produced under simultaneous application of a 60 MPa pressure and the induced current. The average grain size and mechanical properties (hardness and fracture toughness) of the composite were investigated.