Microstructure evolution of Ti3SiC2 powder during high-energy ball milling

Ti3SiC2 powder was milled by high-energy ball milling under argon atmosphere and subsequently thermally annealed. The microstructure evolution of Ti3SiC2 after milling was investigated. It was found that 200 nm particle size Ti3SiC2 powder could be achieved by 9 h milling whereas a longer milling time would induce Ti3SiC2 decomposition. After 18 h milling, the particle size gradually decreased to 150 nm and TiC appeared in the XRD pattern. It is suggested that the collision of the milling balls triggered the formation of TiC from the amorphous phase which was generated in the milling process.