Synthesis of Dense $WSi_2\;and\;WSi_2-xvol.%SiC$ composites by High- Frequency Induction Combustion and Its Mechanical Properties

Using the high-frequency induction heated combustion method, the simultaneous synthesis and densification of $WSi_2-xvol.%SiC$ (x=0, 10, 20, 30) composites was accomplished using elemental powders of W, Si and C. A complete synthesis and densification of the materials was achieved in one step within a duration of 2 min. The relative density of the composite was up to 97% for the applied pressure of 60MPa and the induced current. The average grain size of $WSi_2$ are 6.9, 6.1, and $5.0{\mu}m$, respectively. The hardness and the fracture toughness increases with increasing SiC content. The maximum values for the hardness and fracture toughness are $1840kg/mm^2\;and\;5.1MPa{\cdot}m^{1/2}\;at\;WSi_2-30vol.%SiC$.