Investigation on the effects of the amount and source of carbon on synthesis of Ti2AlC nanostructure by self-propagating high temperature combustion synthesis method

In this study, Ti2AlC ternary carbide by mixing of Ti, Al and C powders and by self-propagating high temperature combustion synthesis method has been synthesized. 2Ti:2Al:1C and 2Ti:2Al:0.5C compounds and carbon sources such as graphite, activated carbon and carbon black were used in order to evaluate the variables of composition and carbon source in the synthesis of Ti2AlC Max phase. First, the primary powders were weighed. Then, the supposed mixed powders were dry grinded for 3 hours. Then, they have been formed in pills under 80 MPa pressure. After applying the self-propagating high temperature combustion synthesis process on the samples, X-ray diffraction analysis and field emission transmission electron microscopy were used to study the phase composition and to observe the microstructure, respectively. Ultimately, determined the maximum amount of synthesized Ti2AlC Max phase was 74 Wt. % and it is related to the sample with 2Ti:2Al:0.5C compound in which the activated carbon is used to provide carbon. Also it was observed that with an increase of 0.5 to 1 mole percent of carbon in the raw materials, weight percent of Ti2AlC MAX phase in the reaction products sharply reduced.