Ceramics-Silikáty 43, (3) 81 - 85 (1999)

An in situ formed electroconductive β-SiAlON/TiN ceramic composite was prepared by reactive sintering from Si + Al + Al₂O₃ + TiO₂ + Si₃N₄ + AlN powder mixture. The heat treatment, nitrogen pressure and starting powder composition were optimized and homogeneous ceramic material was prepared. The reaction time was remarkably reduced by this method in comparison to the common liquid phase sintering route. The electrical resistivity of β-SiAlON + 17 vol.% TiN composite was 2.7×10⁻⁴ Ωm, confirming the suitability of this material for electrical discharge machining.