The phase evolution in the Si₃N₄-AlN system after high-energy mechanical treatment of the precursor powder

The high-energy milling uses the mechanical energy to activate chemical reactions by developing structural changes in the powder particles. High-energy milling with an acceleration of 28g was applied for the mechanical activation of the aluminium and silicon nitrides mixture with yttria additive. The activated powders showed the significant damage of the crystal structure and limited formation of a solid solution. Sintering of the activated precursor demonstrated higher ability for densification and started at 300 °C lower temperature in comparison to the standard mixture. The phase evolution during sintering was dependent on the starting composition and degree of powder activation.