Synthesis, Densification and Characterization of Boron Carbide

Abstract

This paper presents the experimental results on synthesis of boron carbide from its elements. Boron to carbon ratio of 4:1 and a synthesis temperature of 1850°C was found optimum to obtain stoichiometric B₄C. Higher boron in charge resulted in the formation of boron rich phase B₈C along with B₄C but was not effective in eliminating free carbon in the product. Effect of hot pressing parameters on densification of boron carbide was investigated and the optimum operating parameters to obtain B₄C pellets with a density of ≥95% TD were identified. Mechanical and thermal properties were characterized and compared with literature values.

Keywords:

• Boron carbide
• Synthesis
• Hot pressing
• Mechanical properties
• Thermal properties