Effects of processing parameters and rare earths additions on preparation of Al2O3-SiC composite powders from coal ash

Abstract Al 2 O 3 -SiC composite powders were successfully fabricated from coal ash by carbothermal reduction reaction (CRR) method in argon atmosphere. The effects of raw materials ratio, reaction temperature, La 2 O 3 and Sm 2 O 3 additions on the synthesis process were investigated in detail. Phase compositions and microstructures of Al 2 O 3 -SiC composite powders were characterized by XRD and SEM. Proper processing parameters and rare earths addition amounts were determined, and the formation process of Al 2 O 3 -SiC powders was also discussed.