Al2O3/mullite/SiC powders synthesized by microwave-assisted carbothermal reduction of kaolin

Al2O3/mullite/SiC powders have been synthesized by microwave-assisted carbothermal reduction of kaolin. Kaolin, a low cost aluminosilicate, was mixed to carbon black to achieve the precursor blend which was dried, broken in mortar, sieved then reacted in a kitchen microwave oven for 45 min under reducing atmosphere. In order to compare the characteristics of the powders, conventional carbothermal reduction reaction was performed at 1450 degreesC for 2 h. The as-reacted powders were characterized by X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy to confirm the phase formation. Results obtained show Al2O3/mullite/SiC phase in XRD for both reaction routes, products which can be achieved only in temperature ranges of about 1450 degreesC, (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd and Techna S.r.l. All rights reserved.