Pressureless joining of silicon carbide using Ti3SiC2 MAX phase at 1500°C

Silicon carbide ceramics were pressureless joined by using Ti foil and Si powder, which generated Ti3SiC2 phase as the interlayer. The phase composition, microstructure and the shear strength were investigated. It was revealed that the SiC assembly after joining at 1500 degrees C showed the high shear strength of 76.2 +/- 19.5 MPa. The secondary phase of TiC within the interlayer was expected to contribute to densification improvement of Ti3SiC2 phase and thermal stress reduction.