Production of Iron-and silicon-doped max phases by self-propagating high-temperature synthesis

Abstract

This paper looks at the possibility of using soot and a mixture of ferrosilicium, titanium and aluminium powders at different ratios to obtain a new type of MAX phase powder with ferromagnetic properties through self-propagating high-temperature synthesis. To obtain MAX phase powder in the presence of iron and silicon for the purpose of this research, we used iron monosilicide (FeSi) obtained from iron and silicon containing waste of steel makers rather than expensive and scarce silicon. Optimal synthesis conditions have been identified for obtaining the MAX phase with the formula (Fe,Ti)3(Al,Si)C2 containing 90% of the master material, as well as the following inclusions: Fe5Si3, Fe3Si, FeSi (6%); Al3Ti, TiC and TiSi2 (4%). Due to the presence of iron-rich silicides, the resultant MAX phase has magnetic properties. The advantage in this case is that both carbides and silicides of iron and titanium form at the same time. The results of the experiment have been confirmed with the help of X-ray diffraction analysis. An advanced electron probe microanalysis has been applied to establish the exact composition of the resultant products and the distribution of silicides, aluminides and carbides of titanium and iron in the master phase, as well as their sizes and shapes.