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چکیده
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This paper explores α/β-SiAlON composites, known for their exceptional mechanical and thermal properties, fabricated using spark plasma sintering (SPS). Novel reagents were initially introduced for the mechanochemical synthesis of precursors essential for producing α- and β-SiAlON phases via the carbothermal process. The prepared precursors were combined with active carbon in stoichiometric ratios and heated in a nitrogen (N₂) atmosphere for two hours. Characterization techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), confirmed the successful synthesis of SiAlON phases at 1500°C, revealing a range of morphologies.The results demonstrate that all composites sintered through the SPS process achieve complete densification at 1800°C. Mechanical properties, such as hardness and fracture toughness, are influenced by the ratios of α- and β-SiAlON phases. A composition of 70% β-SiAlON and 30% α-SiAlON exhibited optimal results, achieving a fracture toughness of 4.67 MPa•m¹/² and a hardness of 17.32 GPa, comparable to commercial samples produced using alternative raw materials.
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