Fabrication of SiC by carbothermal-reduction reactions of sepiolite

Abstract

The objective of this manuscript was to investigate the synthesis of SiC by carbothermal-reduction reactions of sepiolite. Sepiolite of Serbian origin and carbon (from various precursors) as a reducing agent were used. The green bodies with various C/SiO2 ratios were carbonized at 1073 K and heat-treated at 1673 K in a controlled Ar flow atmosphere. Phase evolution and phase content were followed as a function Of C/SiO2 ratio and carbon origin. The starting materials and products were characterized by means of XRD and SEM. The results show that sepiolite can be very effective source for obtaining silicon carbide powders.