Silicon nitride-silicon carbide composite material

摘要

A densified silicon nitride-silicon carbide composite material formed by hot-pressing a mixture of silicon nitride (Si3N4) powder, which forms the matrix up to 40 volume percent and preferably from 5-30 volume percent silicon carbide (SiC) powder, and a densification aid such as magnesium oxide (MgO). The average size of the silicon carbide particles is to be less than about 5 microns. The densified composite material is characterized by higher thermal conductivity and strength at high temperatures relative to silicon nitride. The flexural strength at 1400 DEG C. of the composite material being at least double that of sintered silicon nitride.