Stoichiometry and mechanical properties of Mo3Si

The A15 phase Mo3Si is an important constituent of a new class of silicides based on Mo–Si–B. In this research it will be shown that, contrary to published results, single-phase Mo3Si is slightly off-stoichiometric. In addition, it remains single phase in a small composition range. Its room temperature fracture toughness is on the order of 3 MPa m1/2. The compressive strength at 1400°C in argon decreases with decreasing strain rate and increasing Si concentration.