Rapid Synthesis and Consolidation of Nanostructured Mg<SUB>2</SUB>SiO<SUB>4</SUB>-MgAl<SUB>2</SUB>O<SUB>4</SUB> Composites

Abstract

Nanopowders of MgO, Al 2 O 3 and SiO 2 were made by high energy ball milling. The rapid sintering of nanostructured MgAl 2 O 4 -Mg 2 SiO 4 composites was investigated by the pulsed current activated sintering process. The advantage of this process is that it allows very quick densification to near theoretical density and inhibition of grain growth. Highly dense nanostructured MgAl 2 O 4 -Mg 2 SiO 4 composites were produced with simultaneous application of 80 MPa pressure and pulsed current of 2800 A within 2 min. The sintering behavior, grain size and mechanical properties of MgAl 2 O 4 -Mg 2 SiO 4 composites were investigated.