Preparation of ultrafine and nanosized MoSi2 particles by self-propagating high-temperature synthesis with a reduction step

We have developed technological principles of the preparation of ultrafine and nanosized MoSi2 particles by self-propagating high-temperature synthesis (SHS) with a reduction step. The effect of synthesis conditions (starting-mixture composition, relative amounts of reactants, and the presence and amount of an inert diluent) on the composition, structure, and particle size of the powders has been studied. The results demonstrate that inert additives reduce the adiabatic temperature. The crystallite size of MoSi2 decreases with increasing additive concentration. The MoSi2 powders obtained by SHS with a reduction step have the form of agglomerates consisting of spherical particles ranging widely in size: from large (several microns) to ultrafine and nanosized. The composition of the powders was checked by chemical analysis, microstructural examination, and X-ray diffraction.