Properties and consolidation of nanocrystalline WSi2–SiC composite from mechanically activated powders by pulsed current activated combustion synthesis

Dense nanostructured WSi2–SiC composite was synthesized by pulsed current activated combustion synthesis method within 2 min in one step from mechanically activated powders of WC and 3Si. Simultaneous combustion synthesis and consolidation were accomplished under the combined effects of a pulsed current and mechanical pressure. Highly dense WSi2–SiC with relative density of up to 99.8% was produced under simultaneous application of a 80 MPa pressure and the pulsed current. The average grain size and mechanical properties of the composite were investigated.