Production of boron carbide powder by carbothermal synthesis of gel material

Abstract

Boron carbide (B4C) powder has been produced by carbothermal reduction of boric acid-citric acid gel. Initially a gel of boric acid-citric acid is prepared in an oven at 100°C. This gel is pyrolyzed in a high temperature furnace over a temperature range of 1000-1800°C. The reaction initiation temperature range for B4C formation is determined by thermal analysis. The optimal pyrolysis temperature of B4C synthesis is investigated. During pyrolysis, the evaporation of boron-rich phases results in presence of free carbon in B4C powder. The electron micrographs and particle size analyser reveal the generation of fine B4C particles. © Indian Academy of Sciences.