Thermal conductivity of Ni-Al powder compacts for reaction synthesis

Thermal conductivity of 3Ni–1Al elemental powder compacts was measured using a laser-flash method as a function of temperature, compact density and heat treatment. Temperature dependence of thermal conductivity of the compacts is similar to that of pure Ni and Al metals. Heat treatment has a significant effect on the thermal conductivity of the compacts as particles are joined together to form Ni solid solution and intermetallic phases on powder surfaces. Fast diffusion on powder surfaces during heat treatment results in the formation of intermetallic phase zones in the interior of the former Ni particles.