A Numerical Model for the Combustion Synthesis of Titanium Aluminide in the Self-Propagating Mode

A numerical model was developed for the self-propagating high-temperature synthesis (SHS) of titanium aluminide from starting elemental powders. The energy equation coupled with the reaction kinetic equation was numerically solved. The calculated temperature-time results were in good agreement with available experimental data. The effect of such parameters as preheating temperature, green density of powder compact, titanium particle size, and effective duration of applying the ignition source on the process behavior was estimated by the model. The optimum value of process parameters to gain a self-sustaining reaction was determined under certain circumstances of the present study. Once properly modified, the model is applicable to predict the conditions suitable to utilize the SHS process for the synthesizing of other types of compounds with similar mechanism of formation.