SHS in the Nb–Si system: Influence of mechanical alloying

Influence of mechanical alloying (MA) on SHS in low-caloric Nb–2Si mixtures was explored as a function of MA time and Si content of green mixtures. The use of MA was found to extend the concentration limits for combustion synthesis in the Nb–Si system to the following range: between 43 wt % Si–57 wt % Nb and 10 wt % Si–90 wt % Nb. Due to MA, SHS in Nb–Si blends can be carried out in a mode of solid–solid or liquid–solid reaction.