Self-propagating high-temperature synthesis in mechanically activated mixtures of boron carbide and titanium

Self-propagating high-temperature synthesis in both the modes of both layer-by-layer combustion and dynamic thermal explosion was carried out using preliminary mechanical activation of B4C–Ti powder mixtures in a planetary ball mill. Preliminary mechanical activation conditions of reaction mixtures that provide a reduction in the reaction initiation temperature to 600 ± 20◦C were determined. The reaction products consist of mixtures of TiC and TiB2 with submicron grain size. The results of x-ray diffraction and electron microscopy studies of activated samples and reaction products are presented.