Synthesis of Ti5Si3-x Nb composites by the field-activated combustion method

The influence of an electric field on the combustion synthesis of Ti5Si3-x Nb composites (0 less than or equal to x less than or equal to 0.8) was investigated. Composites where x greater than or equal to 0.8 can only be synthesized in the presence of a field. In the absence of a field, those systems where x = 0.8 can result in a non-steady combustion wave causing an incomplete reaction. That is, an unstable wave propagates to the middle of the sample and then becomes extinguished. The wave velocity of the Ti5Si3-x Nb composites slightly increases with the imposition of an external electric field across the sample.