ZrB2–SiC Nano‐Powder Mixture Prepared Using ZrSi2 and Modified Spark Plasma Sintering

ZrB₂–SiC nano‐powder mixture was synthesized using ZrSi₂ source material and a modified spark plasma sintering apparatus. The particle size of ZrB₂ and SiC was about 80 and 20 nm, respectively. The molecular‐level homogeneity of Zr/Si source and fast heating/cooling rate by SPS caused the formation of homogeneously intermixed nano‐powders. A strong exothermal reaction occurred at around 860°C, which caused strong agglomeration and growth of the synthesized powder mixture. The rapid reaction could be controlled by adding 20 wt% of NaCl, which acted as an inert filler.