Mechanistic investigation of electric field-activated self-propagating reactions: experimental and modeling studies

The mechanism of electric field-activated self-propagating reactions is inv estigated using the combustion Front quenching technique. In particular, pr eviously published experimental results obtained through the field-activate d combustion synthesis (FACS) of beta -SiC, TaC, Ti3Al and B4C-TiB2 are re- examined and compared. Pre-combustion and combustion stages involved during synthesis wave propagation are postulated for all systems. Subsequently, m odeling results aimed at simulating the process where an electric field-act ivated, self-propagating reaction takes place are presented. In particular, a one-dimensional model of FAGS technique is developed to simulate the rap id quenching of the reaction during its progress as the applied field is tu rned off. A rate expression which accounts for the influence of temperature , particle size, compaction density, reactant stoichiometry, and inert cont ent is included in the model. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights res erved.