Self-propagating, high-temperature synthesis (SHS), which is nn attrac
tive process for forming alloys, cermets, ceramics, and composites, ha
s been combined with a rapid quasi-isostatic consolidation technology
called the Ceracon(TM) process. This one-step synthesis and,densificat
ion route has been applied to the rapid fabrication of large 15 cm x15
cm x2.5 cm titanium carbide tiles. A cost analysis of this process ba
sed on prototype quantities shows that the cost of the process is 30-5
0% of that of current manufacturing processes.