Reaction Sintering of MgAlON at 1500 °C from Al2O3, MgO and AlN and Its Wettability by AlSi7Mg

The aim of this study is the investigation of a technological synthesis of MgAlON, which is a prospective coating material on ceramic foam filters for the filtration of magnesium, aluminum, and other metal melts. Thermodynamic calculations are performed, and the synthesis is carried out at 1500 °C in nitrogen atmosphere using samples consisting of different fractions of Al2O3, MgO, and AlN as starting materials. The effect of the quantity of these components on the conversion degree of the educts is evaluated. Furthermore, the effect of the holding time at the synthesis temperature, as well as the composition points or regions showing the highest conversion degree, are determined. XRD analysis is performed to evaluate the phase fractions and lattice parameters of the spinel after the respective reaction, and the nitrogen content of selected samples is evaluated. Sessile drop tests using AlSi7Mg are performed at 950 °C on selected sintered samples, determining their wettability, and therefore, applicability of the material in light metal melt filtration.