Sintering and recrystallization of ZrC-ZrB2 compacts

TLDR: In this article, the authors describe the process of collective recrystallization over a wide range of temperatures and holding times, Eq. (4) should be used instead of Eq (1), which is normally employed for this purpose.

Abstract: 1. By using finely-divided starting materials, it is possible substantially to improve the sinterability of ZrC, ZrB2, and cermets based on these compounds. The addition of ZrB2 to ZrC or of ZrC to ZrB2 has a very beneficial effect on sinterability. By sintering ZrC and ZrB2 powders with a specific surface area of 4–5 m2/g at 2300–2400°K it is possible to obtain specimens with a total porosity of not more than 2–4%. 2. To describe the process of collective recrystallization over a wide range of temperatures and holding times, Eq. (4) should be used instead of Eq. (1), which is normally employed for this purpose. 3. Grain growth is very intense in ZrC, slightly less intense in ZrB 2, and much less pronounced in ZrC-ZrB 2 cermets. Both the grain size and energy of activation of the cermets diminish with increasing amount of the second component.