ZrN/ZrSi2/Co Cermet by Combustion Synthesis under Pressure: Influence of Co Addition

High-density ZrN/ZrSi(2)composites for use in decoration and as abrasives were synthesized by dynamic-compaction combustion synthesis from Zr-Si3N4-Co powder blends. The effect of Zr mean particle size, compression load P, and Co addition on composite properties was investigated. In the absence of Co, the ZrN/ZrSi2 composite prepared from Zr with (d) over bar= 14.23 mu m at P = 234 MPa showed a porosity of 2.3 vol % and a Vickers hardness of 1115 HV. In addition to enhanced composite hardness, 10% Co additive was also found to result in formation (at P = 327 MPa) of shiny luster particles with a maximum hardness of 1244 HV and a porosity of below 1.0 vol %